The Radio 2 presenter visited a project in Bolton, funded by BBC Children in Need,to find out how it was making a difference to the town’s young people.
Vernon paid a visit to Be the Change, a youth project in Bolton that offers children and young people a safe space to meet with friends, have fun and enjoy being a child.
The project runs sessions throughout the week in arts and crafts, sports and other indoor games which enables them to develop new skills and encourages them to become a positive force in their community and reach their full potential.
Vernon with Daniel. Picture BBC
Whilst at Be the Change, Vernon helped to serve food, took part in some of the sports session and chatted with young people to learn what they enjoy about attending the project.
Vernon said: “I always love being back in Bolton, but this visit was truly special.
READ MORE: Vernon Kay amazing homecoming thanked by head of radio
Vernon Kay in pictures as he arrives in Bolton, his hometown
From threat of deportation to the joys of fatherhood
“I had never quite realised how many projects BBC Children in Need fund until I took on my Ultra Ultra Marathon challenge for Radio 2 last year, and being able to visit one of those in my hometown doing such impactful work that makes a massive difference to young people in the community was really special.
“Meeting with the young people and chatting with them I could really see why they love going there! I did take part in a little bit of their football session too, and I was impressed to hear that a lot of them were Wanderer’s fans!”
Picture BBC
Vernon also met with Daniel Sakula who runs the project. Daniel grew up in Bolton as a refugee without any role models, guidance or encouragement and this experience led him to setting up Be the Change to try and construct a better future for the young people of Bolton.
Daniel said: “ It was great to have Vernon come and visit us and share a bit about what we do here with him. I think he was really impressed, and the young people were excited to be able to chat with him. At Be the Change we offer huge support to children from across Bolton, when lots of youth services have been cut. We are able to give them a safe space to come and socialise and we also encourage our young people to get involved with community initiatives. Coming here can be life changing for them.”
Be the Change receive a grant of £60,000 from BBC Children in Need, over three years, to deliver their youth club services for children and young people in Bolton.
Vernon’s visit will air on BBC Breakfast today on BBC One, ahead of him presenting the BBC Children in Need Appeal Show on Friday 15th November from 7pm.
