TRAILBLAZING new ways to engage with vulnerable young people led youth support charity Includem to kickstart a new partnership with Benarty based Kingdom Off-Road Motorcycle Club.

The Club, which uses a field on the Ballingry to Portmoak road where a track has been created, stepped in to coach seven young people experiencing issues with day-to-day living on a six-week programme of training and practical activities in off road motorbiking.

"We are always looking for new ways of engaging with the young people we support to take them out of their comfort zone and give them positive experiences," said Includem’s Fife Team Manager, Amanda Smith.

"Alongside improving confidence and opening up new social opportunities, the project had a serious side, to improve understanding around safety and the potential dangers of illegal off road biking.

"Illegal biking is an antisocial behaviour that is all too common. A key area for us was trying to instil in the group the life changing consequences such action could have on others and themselves, including a session with a victim of an accident."

Added Amanda: "They were all very receptive to the sessions and they met all our expectations.

"These sessions allowed our young people to explore their own background and share with others their experiences. This all helped boost self confidence and the group had markedly changed their outlook and attitudes by the end of the six weeks.’"

Includem offers intensive 24/7 support for vulnerable young people and their families. It currently works with 45 young people in Fife experiencing challenges dealing with day to day living. They offer tailored intensive support to build confidence and social skills to help them progress towards better lives. The service is backed by a 24/7 helpline that service users can call for instant support.

Added Amanda: "The multiple and complex needs of the young people we support mean engagement is often a challenge. However, this programme demonstrated that with appropriate activities there can be a high level of interest, meaning our outcomes of giving young people self-belief in themselves can be achieved.

"We are looking at potentially expanding the programme to include an employability aspect by running workshops on mechanics and repair. Even within the limits we worked to it has been a success with young people learning constructive behaviours and meeting and interacting with new friends in a positive environment.

"Many thanks to to the Club for their support and Davie Paton in particular for making this happen.".

David and the KORMC, welcome young people interested in learning about how to enjoy off road motorcycling.