More than 1,300 children and young people in Staffordshire have received advice on mindfulness, internet safety and anti-social behaviour prevention through the Barney & Echo project.
The project, which targeted children aged 9 to 11, delivered sessions across 24 schools in the county. Each session equipped pupils with skills and confidence to handle modern challenges both online and offline.
What the project covered
Trained volunteers delivered education on mindfulness, mental wellbeing, anti-social behaviour and internet safety using workbooks, teacher and parent packs, and drama-based learning materials.
All children involved demonstrated an understanding of resilience, online safety, recognising stranger threats and cyberbullying, and where to seek help if they experience problems. Around 64 per cent of participants gained a better understanding of anti-social behaviour and its possible consequences.
The project also engaged around 1,500 parents and carers.
Funding and support
The project received £6,595 funding from Staffordshire County Council's Community Fund, with support from 11 councillors.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said the project gave children "practical skills that will benefit them both now and in the future, while also encouraging important conversations with parents and teachers."
Kelly Griffiths, Director at Amber Bee CIC which delivers the project, said: "We were delighted to have made a difference for so many children with the timely support from Staffordshire Councillors."
Further information is available on the Barney & Echo website and the Community Fund website.