Youth Network

Far too often youth workers in churches and charities become isolated in the work they are doing. Guildford alone has over 30 Christian youth workers attached to churches, charities and youth clubs. They are often working in similar situations, locations and with a common vision.

The Youth Network is simply about promoting and encouraging unity, through relationships and cooperative working. We meet periodically thoughout the year to hear what we’re all involved in, as well as to ask if there are areas in which we can work together. The experience that we have corporately is massive, and the relationships that are formed lead to trust & mutual support across the area, regardless of denomination or organisation.

Whilst most of these youthworkers are not employed by the Trust, we do focus on coordinating and developing the network. We are convinced that networking maximises impact, coordination and efficiency and also ensures that individual youth workers are better supported.

Cooperative projects and development needs are identified primarily through these Youth Network relationships, for example Ready 4 Action, Rampage and Matech (Matrix's tech arm).

Youth workers are supported through regular Network gatherings and visits to youth workers on site. This helps combat isolation and gives access to resources, relationships and mentoring - examples include: specialised training opportunities such as drugs awareness and child protection training; help and advice for churches on youth policy; and line management and development of youth work.

The youth department is overseen by Dave Slinn. For more information about the Network or our youth work in general email him at daveslinn@matrixtrust.com