Our Bright Future Evaluation Key Impacts for Participants: Employability, Social Action and Well-being  

Introduction

This study examined the key impacts of the Our Bright Future programme on young people aged 11 to 24. It focuses on:

• employability

• volunteering

• campaigning

• confidence

• wellbeing

The report is designed for funders, policymakers and practitioners wanting to understand how environmental youth programmes influence young people’s lives and future pathways.

Findings

Our Bright Future contributed to young people’s career pathways. It helped them gain the skills, experience and confidence they needed for education, training or employment.

Many participants developed clearer career goals and accessed further opportunities through placements, qualifications or volunteering. The programme also helped young people's involvement in social action, with many continuing to volunteer or campaign after taking part.

Wellbeing improvements were widely reported, including greater self‑belief, resilience and a sense of purpose. Important factors driving these impacts included:

• hands‑on activities

• supportive staff

• positive peer groups

• connections with nature