Wigan Council
Congratulations to one of our learners, Jack and his carer Deb, who have hiked, climbed and camped in difficult weather conditions. We are very proud, what an achievement.
Full story is below.
Congratulations to Jack, 14, who, along with his new foster carer, Deb, has hiked, climbed, and camped, in difficult weather conditions, and with only basic necessities.
The expedition in the Lake District was overseen by John Rocks, director of the outdoor adventure company, My Expedition Rocks, and aimed to take Jack and Deb out of their comfort zones so that they could face different challenges, spend time together, and to help them bond as a new fostering family.
Paul Andrews, a child and family systemic psychotherapist, who accompanied Jack and Deb on the trip, said:
“Outdoor expeditions like this can have so many benefits, especially when young people are involved, as lots of younger people don’t want to engage in therapy in a traditional indoor clinical setting.
“This type of therapy is also perfect to run during the pandemic as therapeutic work outdoors was still permitted at the time.
“Being in the outdoors offers an opportunity for different types of conversation and overcoming some of the physical challenges the environment presents means everyone involved can build their problem-solving skills together.
“Jack and Deb will now be able to draw on the success of the experience and the skills they used to overcome challenges, if different problems occur in the future.”
Jack was presented with achievement certificates for his hard work and positive attitude on the trip.
He said:
“The hardest part was all the walking as a lot of it was uphill and the weather was really cold and wet.
“I’ve learned never to give up on something and that you’re more likely to achieve something if you have the right mindset.”
The success of Jack and Deb’s experience means that the NHS, Wigan Council and Wigan Borough CCG are now looking at ways to be able to offer the outdoor expedition therapy to other families in the borough. ... See more
