National Gas Employees Throw Themselves into Adventure Day

National Gas employees quite literally threw themselves into an Adventures Away from Home Day at Tees Barrage International White Water Centre in Stockton-on-Tees. A group of 15 employees and volunteers took part in a morning of kayaking and an afternoon of stand-up paddleboarding, gaining a first-hand insight into how National Gas funding has enabled young people across the country of whom may not otherwise have had the opportunity to experience outdoor activities.

These activities take young people out of their comfort zones and help to build self-confidence, social interaction skills, teamwork, and an appreciation of their local environment.

Tees Active, a charitable leisure trust based in Stockton-on-Tees, was selected as one of the delivery partners by UK Youth, who organised the programme nationally. National Gas funding has enabled Tees Active to deliver Adventures Away from Home experiences to 150 young people from a variety of backgrounds to gain an unforgettable, life-changing experience.

Allan McDermott, Community Engagement Manager at Tees Active, said: “The feedback from young people and organisations we have engaged with has been tremendous. We have supported young people who are carers, living with disabilities, have low academic attainment, and reside in some of the most deprived areas of Teesside. Participation in these activities has helped to develop their self-confidence and social skills.”

Maria Carraro, UK Youth’s Head of Corporate Partnerships, added: “Growing up today isn’t easy. Many young people are navigating pressures on their mental health, feeling disconnected from others, and facing barriers to meaningful employment. Rising living costs, poverty, and years of cuts to youth services have only made these challenges harder.

We know that time spent outdoors can help young people build confidence, strengthen wellbeing, and develop the skills they need to thrive. However, access to these opportunities often depends on factors outside their control, such as cost, limited local provision, or caring responsibilities.

With support from funders like National Gas and delivery partners like Tees Active, we are opening life-changing outdoor experiences for more young people. The programme is helping them develop essential life skills, build confidence, enjoy the outdoors, and feel ready to take on new challenges.”

Bayan Golmohamad, ESG Advisor for National Gas, added: “National Gas is incredibly proud to support the Adventures Away from Home programme with UK Youth. Seeing our people step up as volunteers and witnessing the confidence, energy, and joy it sparks in young people is genuinely powerful. It’s a reminder that when we come together, the impact goes far beyond the day itself and stays with everyone involved.