Spotlight On
Updated: 34 minutes ago
Welcome to our new series of programme spotlights, aimed at providing readers with all the information they need to chose a programme to support their needs.
In this first spotlight we look at Catch and Connect.
A first cast. A shared laugh. The moment someone decides to try again after something hasn’t gone to plan. These might seem like small moments. At Catch and Connect, they’re opportunities to practice new skills, build relationships and discover something about yourself.
Catch and Connect is a 10-week programme for young people aged 11–18, combining fishing, outdoor activity and wellbeing education. Delivered by our qualified level 2 coaches, it offers a different starting point for young people who could benefit from support with confidence, coping skills and connecting with others.
Why start with fishing?
Support doesn’t always have to begin with a conversation about what’s difficult. Sometimes, it can begin with something to do together.
Catch and Connect gives young people an enjoyable activity to get involved in, with supportive adults alongside them. Fishing provides a shared focus, and opportunities to learn, talk, listen and build relationships along the way.
There’s more happening than learning how to cast or waiting for a bite. When a technique isn’t working, there’s a chance to try another approach. When a fish gets away, there’s disappointment to manage. When something finally clicks, there’s a success to recognise.
Asking for help, solving a problem, keeping going: these are skills young people can practise at the water and carry into other parts of their lives.
Seeing the person, not just the challenge
Different young people face different challenges. Some may feel anxious or socially isolated. Others may find it difficult to manage emotions, navigate relationships or engage with education. Catch and Connect welcomes young people with SEND or who are neurodivergent and may benefit from additional support.
But the programme’s starting point isn’t a label. It’s the young person, their interests, their strengths and what matters to them.
Our approach is guided by a simple idea:
“What matters to you, not what is the matter with you.”
Regular time with adults who listen, encourage and recognise strengths is central to the programme. Alongside the fishing, we aim to create a space where young people feel valued for who they are.
A journey, not just an activity
Over 10 weeks, Catch and Connect combines practical fishing and outdoor activities with wellbeing lesson plans. Themes include understanding emotions, recognising strengths, building self-esteem, managing difficult feelings and developing positive relationships.
The practical experiences give young people opportunities to explore those themes through what they do, not only what they discuss.
Learning a new technique can become an opportunity to build self-belief. Helping another participant can be a chance to practice communication and mutual support. Trying again after a frustrating moment can be a step towards greater resilience. These are the kinds of experiences the programme is designed to encourage.
The catch is only part of the story
Catching a first fish is something to celebrate. So is asking for help, speaking in a group or attempting something that previously felt out of reach.
Catch and Connect looks beyond fishing skills alone. Its aims include greater confidence, stronger relationships, improved resilience and positive engagement with learning and community life. The programme also looks towards what comes next, with possible pathways into local fishing clubs, volunteering, young leadership, further outdoor activities, education or training.
The fishing is the hook. The wider purpose is to help young people build connection, confidence and a positive sense of what they could do next.
Take a closer look at Catch and Connect
If you’re a parent, carer, school or organisation supporting young people, our Catch and Connect booklet explains more about the programme, its approach and what it aims to help young people develop.
Download our PDF to discover how time by the water can become part of a much bigger journey.
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