A Christian charity in Hereford has been training teenagers to provide first aid and support to people on nights out, while helping them recognise and avoid drugs and other dangers.

Robert Thomas MBE, who founded Vennture in 2012 told Premier Christian News that the young volunteers are taught much more than standard first aid.

“One of the things that they learn is how to spot those who are grooming those who are involved in really dark and bad stuff, how to avoid that stuff, but also how to help their friends stay away from it as well”.

Sixteen and 17-year-olds from Vennture’s Lean on Me programme are preparing to join the charity’s Street Presence teams on Fridays and Saturdays between 6:30pm and 3am. Operating from a specially adapted mobile unit, the scheme works alongside local businesses, specialist services, the church, and police to make Hereford’s night-time economy safer.

Thomas explained that Lean on Me gives students hands-on experience for healthcare careers: “Some of the first Lean on Me students who went through it… are now doctors in hospitals around the country. One of them actually said volunteering in Lean on Me was their first step into medicine”.

Training includes emergency first aid, mental health, safeguarding, and recognising health conditions that may appear as alcohol or drug misuse. Volunteers initially finish shifts at 11pm, supervised by adult volunteers, before moving to later shifts once they turn 18.

Thomas highlighted the wider impact of the programme: “They play a massive role in reducing antisocial behaviour, keeping people safe, and being strong advocates for their friends”.

The charity has urged people to keep praying for their work and sign up to volunteer where possible.