MCR Social
The Pitch
Problem statement
In 2021, 70% of disabled young people under 25 said they felt lonely almost all of the time. The impact of the pandemic, and missing out on making friends at school or college has only exacerbated this. For many disabled young people this has restricted their independence, and made visiting public spaces feel daunting and impossible. Imagine feeling this whilst growing up in Manchester, a culturally vibrant city with so much to offer. Too many disabled young people are missing out on the amazing activities, events and culture on their doorstep, who just need a little extra support to get out and build their confidence and make new friends.
Solution
MCR Social connects disabled and neurodivergent young people with a similarly-aged volunteer with similar interests and supports them to go to a venue or activity of their choice, together. It might be a trip to the cinema, a walk in the park or a visit to a football game. Whatever it is, the volunteer will be interested in that too! We know that often all it takes for a young disabled person to start gaining confidence and independence is just a little bit of extra support to do what they love. We're seeking £1000 to cover expenses - making this programme accessible to young disabled people and volunteers who can't afford travel or ticket costs.
Why are we best placed to deliver?
MCR Social is a partnership programme delivered by Greater Manchester Youth Network and Young Manchester. Greater Manchester Youth Network (GMYN) has over seven years experience supporting disabled young people aged 10-25. Their programmes enable them to take part in innovative and exciting opportunities they wouldn't otherwise be able to access. Young Manchester is the membership organisation for non-profit youth groups in Manchester. With over 120 members, YM focuses on reaching the most excluded young people, and developing an in-depth knowledge of the challenges young people face growing up in our city - meaning we can ensure funding and support goes where it is most needed.
Focus Areas
Delivery plan
Budget breakdown
| Volunteer Expenses | £500 |
| Tickets and travel for young people | £500 |
Beneficiaries
200 people
Who will benefit
Expected impact
By the end of 6 visits, we're aiming for 80% of the young people involved to feel more confident going to public spaces than they did at the beginning. We're aiming for 50% of them to feel like they can go to public spaces without the support of a volunteer. 100% of young people will have said they enjoyed the programme. 90% of our volunteers will say they enjoyed supporting a young people to access something they love.
Track record
After taking part in GMYN's travel training programme, supporting disabled and neurodivergent young people to gain independence, 80% of young people said they'd gained condience, 90% went somewhere in Manchester they'd never been before and 89% of young people said they'd gained independence skills.