Hi, my name’s Jess and I’m the Head of Children and Young People for Bright Minds Big Futures (BMBF).


I first heard of BMBF when I attended their music event - Secret Sound. I really enjoyed it and thought it would be a great opportunity to get involved.


My first big event was helping at SIRF (Stockton International Riverside Festival) in August 2019, which was an amazing experience and a great opportunity for me to meet like-minded young people. When I first joined BMBF I was very shy but everyone made me feel welcome and I soon settled in.


My confidence grew and I decided I wanted to join the Big Committee as Head of Children and Young People. I have a real passion to make young people’s services better so that the children in Stockton have better opportunities. I was over the moon when I was told I was elected to the position.


I’ve really enjoyed attending the BMBF meetings and have found myself challenged to step outside of my usual comfort zone, which has been amazing. I would encourage any young person in the Borough to join.


If you are a young person aged 11-19, or up to 24 with disabilities, you can join BMBF by contacting us. Just email brightmindsbigfutures@stockton. gov.uk or fill in the contact us form found at www.stockton.gov.uk/bmbf to get involved - we have so many great opportunities just waiting for you to get stuck into!


Making their mark


Bright Minds Big Futures (BMBF) are celebrating after scooping the County


Durham High Sheriff Youth Award. The prestigious accolade recognises community groups who encourage beneficial pursuits for local people - BMBF was nominated for supporting young people to be outstanding citizens.


A virtual awards ceremony took place in March where they received the award and scooped a grant of £1,500. It will be used to set up a funding pot for other young people and their groups in the community.


BMBF also successfully secured a grant of £400 from the Tees Valley Nature Partnership which will be used to involve young people in making bird boxes for Ropner Park.


Approved and looking


to the future Earlier in the year, Stockton Police Station and all Tees Active venues were awarded BMBF Approved status, which recognises them as young-people friendly. The BMBF team enjoyed assessing the facilities and managed to squeeze in a quick game of carpet bowls amongst other activities.


Follow the BMBF social media accounts to find out more and keep up with the latest updates.


www.facebook.com/ brightmindsbigfutures


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www.twitter.com/_bmbf www.instagram.com/_bmbf/


During the Coronavirus pandemic, BMBF has been busy promoting campaigns online such as Mental Health Awareness Week. The campaign inspired 10 members to complete online suicide prevention training. BMBF has also continued hosting Big Committee meetings and quizzes virtually.


And now the group is planning another Secret Sound, following on from the success of their fourth event in February featuring young local artists which raised more than £200.


Our People


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