After three fantastic years we are celebrating the impact that Bide Oot has had on the lives of children and families we work with across Scotland.
Launched in 2020, Bide Oot has given 135 families who work with Children First the chance to try new skills, sports and activities together during residential weekends at an outdoor education centre in the Scottish countryside and special days out together.
A new evaluation report published today, shines a light on the positive impact Bide Oot has made.
The report reveals a total of 411 people were supported through Bide Oot over the past three years – 232 children and 179 adults.
Simon McGowan, Assistant Director at Children First said: “Every family we have worked with has told us what a fantastic impact Bide Oot has had on their lives. As we come to the end of the project, it is time to reflect and celebrate this.
“Bide Oot has helped children and families to strengthen relationships with each other, make new friends, build their confidence and transformed their mental health and emotional wellbeing. For many families the time outdoors together has led to them leading more active lives.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank STV for funding Bide Oot, to show my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of all my colleagues involved and most of all to thank the families who took part.”
Bide Oot has given families the chance to spend precious time together and make memories to last a lifetime.
Mum Ashley said: “We bonded as a group, the young people made new forever friends, and we made family memories.”
Lara, shared: “I made my best friend.”
Kinship carer Gracie said: “We all became one big family – it’s given me a friendship group.”
Archie said: “Usually me and my mum don’t talk a lot but at Bide Oot we talked all the time.”
Dad Jacob said: “It’s made me realise we need to bring that family time in.”
Sasha, who took part in Bide Oot when she was younger, is now travelling solo in Thailand. She said: “I wouldn’t have the confidence to be where I am today if it wasn’t for going to Bide Oot.”
Mum Anita shared: “It gave us more confidence to go out and about, it’s brought the kids out of their shell. Especially my eldest who is autistic. She’s met lots of children who accept her for who she is. She’s chatting more, talking about her problems, whereas before she was closed off from the world. I’ve noticed a massive difference in her.”
You can read the full evaluation report here.
Bide Oot has helped Children First learn more about the health and wellbeing benefits of outdoor activities and adventures which we will be integrating in our local services for children and families.