In today’s world, young people are growing up surrounded by mixed messages about identity, belonging, and how to relate to others. For many Ethnic children, stereotypes, prejudice, and the pressure to “fit in”, even in their own communities, can lead to bullying, mistrust, and isolation.
BET creates a joyful and welcoming space where ethnically diverse children and young people aged 8 to 18 can build relationships, learn from one another, and grow in confidence as a community.
It’s more than just a holiday programme; it’s a movement that nurtures empathy, respect, and leadership. At its heart, BET promotes individuality, shared learning, and the importance of collaboration.
Research by Youthlink Scotland and a framework from Education Scotland highlight that inclusive, peer-led youth work has a powerful impact on young people from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds. It helps reduce isolation and support emotional wellbeing, especially during school holidays when structure and social connection can be limited. BET brings this to life by giving young people the chance to connect, learn, and grow together.
Many of our young people worry about being judged or misunderstood, even by others from similar backgrounds. This can come from stereotypes, cultural pressure, or a lack of spaces where they feel they can be themselves. That’s why BET is important.
At BYF, through BET, we create a safe and affirming space where young people come together not just to play but to grow, as friends, teammates, and future leaders. Through laughter, games, creative expression, and guided conversations, BET helps young people:
Break down walls of fear, mistrust, and shame
Learn how to respect, listen to, and support each other
Build real, lasting relationships across different personalities and backgrounds
Discover their strengths and how to celebrate others’ strengths as well
Our BET programmes run from Tuesday to Thursday each week. The summer holiday programme runs for 6 weeks, the October holiday programme for 1 week, and the Easter programme for 2 weeks. Each programme supports a group of 40 young people: 20 boys and 20 girls, through various activities including:
Building problem-solving and leadership skills through fun, interactive challenges.
Expressing individuality while collaborating on group art, music, and media activities.
Getting moving with active play to encourage healthy living and teamwork.
Creating space for honest, supportive conversations.
In this way, our young people learn how to disagree without disrespect, lead without ego, and connect without fear. By the end of each programme, what starts as a room of strangers often becomes a room of brothers and sisters connected by courage, joy, and a shared journey.
Through these activities, we create a culture where: