Y-Smart Beach Project 2003

This summer, Y-Smart has been involved with a pilot scheme to promote the ‘Talk To Frank’ campaign. With a grant from the GOSW Drugs Team, we were able to set up a beach project which covered most of the beaches across Northern Devon.

Our aim was, not only to promote FRANK, but also to work with a group of young people locally in order to raise their awareness of drugs and alcohol issues. The pilot has also helped to build the young people’s confidence and self-esteem.

The young people were nominated to participate by North Devon College, North Devon Training Services, Millennium Volunteers and Y-Smart. All of the young people attended several meetings and an initial training day. They were also involved in the decision-making processes regarding the shape that the project was to take and the kind of activities that would be undertaken on the beaches. The young people were also asked for ideas about FRANK promotional materials that could be used to give away in competitions.

‘Frankly speaking, FRANK is an excellent idea – health promotion and drink and drug awareness is vital for our kids. Coming to beaches is a good way of reaching the target audience – let’s hope people listen. I find the Y-Smart guys very friendly, professional in their approach. Well done, keep up the good work.’

Boushra Sanosi - Epping

It was decided that we would target a different beach every Monday and Wednesday over the Summer. The young people had the idea that they would organise games on the beach and that we would hold a juggling master class to attract people. It was also decided that a competition to win a surfboard would be held over the whole of the summer whereby entrants should answer questions on drugs and alcohol in order to be able to win.

I’m pleased to see the Y-Smart project using FRANK to target people across the board here. We need a lot more broad based and open education and discussion about drug use and misuse. Good luck !

Sue Talbot - Leeds

The beaches covered were Croyde, Westward Ho!, Saunton Sands, Woolacombe, Instow, Putsborough. All the beaches, with the exception of Westward Ho! are privately owned and we had to seek permission to work on them. The local beach owners and their management have been very supportive and helpful, with Ruda/ Croyde even donating a body board to add to the competition!

During the project contacts were recorded and there was a lot of positive exchange. We found that the drug and alcohol questions promoted conversation between young people and their parents/carers and people were very pleased to see us on the beach.

The project has reached a total of 1220 contacts, all of whom have been spoken to and received FRANK leaflets and promotional materials. There were 823 entries to the competition, which we had fun marking! Surprisingly, the amount of correct entries only totalled 197 and this clearly exemplifies the need for drugs and alcohol education !!