Welcome to Lochaber Hope's BrightMinds Hub.
BrightMinds is a local youth programme, created by young people for young people.
This project aims to transform mental health support for young people under 25 in Lochaber. BrightMinds, offers groups, events, and training to young people. We believe in their resilience and capabilities, striving to empower them with tools, resources, and connections to lead happy, healthy lives and inspire others. Additionally, we campaign for changes in mental health culture, policies, and practices to advocate for better support systems. By empowering youth and driving systemic improvements, we aim to create a lasting, widespread impact.
Youth Club!
Our Youth Club is open to young people aged 8 to 13!
At our Youth Club, young people will explore a new topic or theme each week, whether it is cooking, creative arts, physical activity or team skills.
Each night will consist of free time, structured activities, a group meal (be prepared for homemade pizzas, burrito bowls and jacket potatos!) and a group discussion around the theme of the week.
This group will run on Tuesdays, 16:30 till 18:30 and it is £1 per child to attend.
To attend, a membership form must be filled out. These can be found by clicking the link below!
Youth Mentoring and Counselling
Youth Counselling or Mentoring is for any age upto 18!
We offer both mentoring and counselling services, each designed to support young people in different but equally important ways.
Mentoring is a friendly, goal-focused relationship where a young person is matched with a positive role model. Mentors offer encouragement, share life experiences, and help with things like setting goals, building confidence, and making positive choices. It’s more about guidance and personal development.
Counselling, on the other hand, is a professional and confidential service where young people can talk openly about their thoughts, feelings, and challenges with a trained counsellor. It focuses more on emotional wellbeing, helping to process difficult experiences, manage stress or anxiety, and build coping skills.
While mentoring looks forward and helps with planning for the future, counselling looks inward to support mental and emotional health. Together, these services can give young people the tools and support they need to grow, feel good about themselves, and take on life with confidence.
Youth Advisory Board
The Youth Advisory Board is open to ages 13+
Our Youth Advisory Board meets for a few hours each month to share ideas, give feedback, and shape the future of the BrightMinds Project.
Members take part in real decision-making — from helping plan events and reviewing programmes to creating youth-friendly materials and leading peer projects. You'll also have the chance to represent your peers, build leadership skills, and get involved in creative campaigns, community displays, and even staff interviews. It’s a brilliant way to make your voice heard, develop confidence, and contribute to something that truly makes a difference.
If you would like to join or find out more, email us and we will get back to you!
Youth Development
Youth Development offers training, courses and skills based learning for young people upto 25 years old.
Our youth development strand offers young people the chance to grow in confidence, build life skills, and support their mental well-being through volunteering, creative workshops, and accredited training. Whether it's becoming a peer mentor through our SQA Level 4 programme or taking part in fun, hands-on activities, BrightMinds empowers young people to connect, contribute, and thrive in a supportive environment.
To find out more, get in touch with us directly, look through our events catalogue, or keep an eye on our Facebook page for upcoming opportunities and events. To see what trainings we can offer, scroll down the page!
Weekly Activity Groups
Discover our current events and activities and find out how to get involved. They are free to attend and exist as opportunities for you to meet like-minded people and maybe try something fun!
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Our meetings, events and groups are hosted at New Connections on the Fort William High Street.
2025 EVENTS
Hi5 Award Day - Bring the Archives to lifeMon 02 JunFort William
Jewellery making workshop (ages 10 - 16)Mon 23 JunFort William
Young Entrepreneurs Week with Dynamic Youth Award (ages 13-18)Mon 07 JulFort William
Some of the trainings that are available to you...
To find out more or to get involved get in touch!
Opening Hours
Dalnahaine, Belford Road, Fort William PH33 6ES.
Mon - Fri
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
Call 01397 704 836