FOR MORE THAN 120 years, Bolton Lads & Girls Club has provided a lifeline for youngsters from some of the most deprived areas of the country. Open seven nights a week, the club, in the heart of Bolton, works with nearly 3,000 young people, aged eight to 21 (25 for disabled people) every week. Its 93 paid and part-time workforce and more than 300 volunteers help youngsters “break the circle of disadvantage” through sport, the arts and one-to-one or group mentoring sessions. At least four nights a week are spent doing street-based youth work. Employees believe the charity supports the local community, scoring 77% positive and ranked fifth in our survey of small not-for-profit organisations. It also encourages its people in charitable activities (90%) and makes a positive difference (89%). A third of the workforce has five or more years' service. They give up their time for free at the charity's many events, and their hard work is recognised with monthly and annual awards. Plans are in place to develop and strengthen the senior management team with leadership training. Staff believe managers are supportive (81%) and excellent role models (74%). Working in their team gives them a buzz (78%). Last year, chief executive Karen Edwards was awarded an OBE for services to the voluntary sector. She joined the charity as a volunteer 17 years ago. The club plans to increase its membership, work with schools and improve its facilities as it strives to continue to give young people “somewhere to go, something to do, someone to talk to”.
