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Unlocking Opportunities: Youth Unity Horse Racing Residential Week & Pathways to Employment

Our project is dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within the horse racing community. Through our collaboration with British Racing School, we aim to provide pathways to education and employment within the industry. This fully funded opportunity which is offered by The Gerald Leigh Foundation gives invaluable insights and experiences in horse racing, serving as a gateway to explore various career opportunities available in the field.  During the week there will be opportunities to discuss the various pathways and how to get involved, with many of the courses funded with guaranteed employment at the end.

Ideal for NEET but not exclusively young people aged 16 to 24, no prior experience with horses is necessary as full training will be provided, this is open for both male and female.  An on line interview process will take place for the selection.

We have upcoming sessions scheduled for 13th to 19th April / 17th to 21st June, and 7th to 11th October. Limited spaces are available, so we encourage interested individuals to promptly complete our expression of interest form to secure their spot.

Don’t worry if they lack riding gear, as the school will provide it for you.

FORM: https://forms.office.com/e/HSfvmbzGyT

Immerse Yourself: Exciting Week Course Featuring Horse Riding, Stud Farm Visits, and Exclusive Experiences”

The British Racing School boasts an onsite safeguarding team available around the clock, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all participants. Additionally, our dedicated staff, are on site for the week to assist with any questions or concerns. Rest assured, all staff members have undergone enhanced DBS checks, and we can provide insurance information and risk assessments upon request.

Meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, will be provided throughout your stay, eliminating the need for any additional expenses. As our school is in a remote area without any shops, participants can focus solely on their learning experience.

For any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

We’re here to ensure your journey with us is as enriching and rewarding as possible.

Children Vaping. The use of e cigarettes is unsafe for kids, teens, and young adults. Most e cigarettes contain nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive and can harm adolescent brain development

The Hidden Hazards: Exploring the Dangers of Vaping for Children in the UK

Vaping, once hailed as a safer alternative to smoking, has now emerged as a significant public health concern, especially among children and adolescents. Despite efforts to regulate and control its use, vaping among youth in the UK is on the rise, presenting a myriad of health risks and challenges. This report delves into the alarming trends, associated dangers, and urgent need for awareness and action regarding vaping among children in the UK.

The Rising Trend:

In recent years, vaping has gained popularity among children and adolescents in the UK at an alarming rate. Statistics from Public Health England reveal that approximately 16% of 11-18-year-olds in England have tried vaping at least once, with a significant proportion regularly using e-cigarettes. The accessibility, enticing flavors, and perceived coolness factor of vaping products contribute to their widespread appeal among youth.

Health Risks:

Contrary to popular belief, vaping is not harmless. E-cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can adversely affect brain development in adolescents, leading to long-term cognitive and behavioral impairments. Additionally, the aerosols produced by vaping devices contain harmful chemicals, including carcinogens and toxic metals, which pose serious health risks, such as respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases.

Gateway to Smoking:

Studies suggest that vaping serves as a gateway to conventional smoking among young individuals. Experimenting with e-cigarettes at a young age increases the likelihood of transitioning to traditional tobacco products, perpetuating the cycle of nicotine addiction and exacerbating the public health burden of smoking-related illnesses.

Regulatory Challenges:

Despite stringent regulations aimed at curbing youth vaping, enforcement remains a significant challenge. The proliferation of online sales, marketing tactics targeting youth, and the emergence of discreet vaping devices further complicate efforts to regulate the industry effectively. Addressing these regulatory gaps and implementing robust measures to restrict youth access to vaping products are imperative to safeguarding the health and well-being of children in the UK.

Educational Initiatives:

Preventing and mitigating the harms of vaping among children necessitates comprehensive educational initiatives targeting both youth and their parents. Schools play a pivotal role in raising awareness about the risks associated with vaping and promoting healthy behaviors among students. Furthermore, empowering parents with accurate information and resources to address vaping-related issues with their children is essential in fostering open dialogue and encouraging informed decision-making.

Conclusion:

The surge in vaping among children in the UK represents a pressing public health challenge that demands immediate attention and concerted action. By understanding the risks, advocating for effective regulations, and prioritising education and prevention efforts, we can work together to protect our youth from the insidious dangers of vaping and ensure a healthier future for generations to come.

Vaping poses several health risks, including:

Nicotine Addiction: E-cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive substance that can lead to dependence, especially in young users whose brains are still developing. Nicotine addiction can have long-term implications on cognitive function and behavior.

Respiratory Issues: Vaping aerosols contain harmful chemicals, including ultrafine particles, volatile organic compounds, and heavy metals, which can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Cardiovascular Health: Nicotine exposure from vaping can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, particularly in individuals with underlying health conditions.

Lung Damage: Inhalation of vaping aerosols can lead to lung inflammation and damage, contributing to conditions like bronchiolitis obliterates (popcorn lung) and increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Chemical Exposure: E-cigarette liquids and aerosols contain a cocktail of chemicals, many of which are known carcinogens and toxins. Prolonged exposure to these substances can have detrimental effects on overall health and increase the risk of developing cancer and other serious illnesses.

Adolescent Brain Development: Nicotine exposure during adolescence can interfere with brain development, impairing cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and impulse control. This can have lasting effects on academic performance and social behavior.

Gateway to Smoking: Research suggests that vaping may serve as a gateway to conventional smoking, with young e-cigarette users more likely to experiment with traditional tobacco products. This perpetuates the cycle of nicotine addiction and poses a significant public health concern.

Accidental Exposure: The liquid nicotine used in e-cigarettes can be toxic if ingested or absorbed through the skin, posing a risk of poisoning, especially among children and pets.

If you’re under 16 and addicted to vaping in the UK, there are several places you can turn to for help:

Talk to a Trusted Adult: Reach out to a parent, guardian, teacher, school counselor, or another trusted adult who can provide support and guidance. They can help you access appropriate resources and support services.

Speak with a Healthcare Professional: Schedule an appointment with your family doctor, pediatrician, or a healthcare provider specializing in adolescent health. They can offer confidential advice, assess your vaping habits, and provide assistance tailored to your needs.

Contact Support Services: Organisations such as Childline (0800 1111) and FRANK (0300 123 6600) offer free, confidential support and advice to young people dealing with substance abuse issues, including vaping addiction.

You can speak with trained counselors who can listen to your concerns and provide guidance on how to seek help.

Utilise Online Resources: Websites like the NHS Smokefree website and Talk to Frank provide valuable information, resources, and self-help tools for individuals looking to quit vaping or overcome nicotine addiction. You can access information on vaping risks, cessation strategies, and support services available in your area.

Seek Peer Support: Consider reaching out to friends, classmates, or online support groups who may be experiencing similar challenges with vaping addiction. Sharing your experiences and seeking encouragement from peers can be empowering and reassuring.

Remember, it’s essential to reach out for help and support when struggling with addiction, regardless of your age. You’re not alone, and there are people and resources available to assist you in overcoming vaping addiction and leading a healthier life.

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Lion King, Theatre Trip

provided by Disney Theatre Group

We are thrilled to share that Youth Unity had the incredible opportunity to attend the theatre on Tuesday evening, courtesy of discounted tickets generously provided by the Disney Theatrical Group. This partnership allowed us to bring the young people we support and their families together for a memorable experience, from the different boroughs that we work in collaboration.

Thanks to the support of Disney Theatrical Group, we were able to secure 25 tickets to witness the breath-taking performance of Lion King at the prestigious Lyceum Theatre.

It was a chance for us to unite, immerse ourselves in the magic of live theatre, and create cherished memories together.

The positive feedback received from the families who attended underscores the importance of providing more opportunities for low-income families to access West End theatre. It’s evident that many families who cannot typically afford the high ticket prices miss out on exposing their young children to the creative arts. This highlights a pressing need for change in ensuring that all children have early access to such enriching experiences.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Disney Theatrical Group for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. This collaboration reaffirms our dedication to providing enriching experiences for the youth and families we are privileged to serve.

Studio microphone for recording podcasts on a white background.

BSix College
Podcasting Workshops

Podcasting is not just a medium for entertainment;
it's a powerful tool for education, empowerment, and community building.

Starting April 17th 

Podcasting workshops tailored for young people 16+ offer an exciting and educational journey into the world of digital storytelling. These workshops provide a creative platform for participants to explore their voices and share their unique perspectives. Through hands-on activities, young podcasters learn the basics of storytelling, scriptwriting, and audio editing in a fun and engaging environment.

The workshops cover fundamental podcasting skills, including microphone techniques, voice modulation, and sound editing. Participants also gain insights into the art of interviewing, allowing them to conduct conversations and share compelling narratives. Emphasis is placed on digital citizenship, promoting responsible and ethical podcasting practices.

In addition to technical skills, these workshops foster critical thinking as young podcasters explore diverse topics and learn to express their thoughts and opinions effectively. Collaborative activities encourage teamwork and communication, enhancing both creativity and interpersonal skills.

Week 1: Introduction to Podcasting

  • Overview of podcasting: history, impact, and popular genres
  • Discussion on the importance of storytelling in podcasts
  • Introduction to different podcast formats (interviews, storytelling, panel discussions)
  • Assignment: Choose a podcast format and brainstorm ideas for a podcast episode

Week 2: Recording Techniques and Equipment

  • Basics of audio recording equipment (microphones, recording software)
  • Hands-on practice with microphone techniques and voice modulation
  • Introduction to background noise reduction and audio quality enhancement
  • Assignment: Record a short practice segment using provided equipment

Week 3: Editing and Post-Production

  • Introduction to audio editing software
  • Hands-on practice with cutting, splicing, and enhancing audio
  • Tips for seamless transitions and adding music/effects
  • Assignment: Edit the recorded practice segment and enhance audio quality

Week 4: Branding and Promotion

  • Importance of branding and creating a podcast identity
  • Strategies for writing compelling descriptions and creating cover art
  • Introduction to podcast promotion techniques and social media marketing
  • Assignment: Create cover art and write a podcast description for the planned episode

Week 5: Legal and Ethical Considerations

  • Discussion on copyright issues, permissions, and fair use
  • Understanding privacy considerations and obtaining necessary permissions
  • Introduction to music licensing and avoiding copyright infringement
  • Assignment: Research and prepare a brief on legal and ethical considerations for podcasting

Week 6: Distribution and Launch

  • Introduction to podcast hosting platforms and RSS feeds
  • Step-by-step guide to uploading and distributing podcast episodes
  • Strategies for maximising reach through popular podcast directories
  • Finalisation of podcast episode and launch plan
  • Assignment: Upload and distribute the finalised podcast episode

Throughout the workshop series:

  • Collaborative activities and discussions on various podcasting topics
  • Encouragement of teamwork and communication skills through group projects
  • Continuous feedback and support from facilitators and peers
  • Q&A sessions to address any questions or challenges faced during the workshop

By the end of the six-week workshop series, participants should feel confident in their ability to plan, record, edit, and promote their own podcast episodes. They will have practical skills and a deeper understanding of podcasting, ready to embark on their journey as young podcasters.

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An amazing testimonial for Paul Robinson, Mentor, Tendring

“I really enjoy working alongside Paul and can see the positive impact his work has on my young people. 

Paul, and other mentors I work with, have life stories that are an inspiration.  They inspire my work but most importantly, inspire my young people who I see come out of their shells, open up and talk.  They don’t even realise – the power of sport and indirect approaches.  Kids sitting in a room and talking about their life when on the spot, doesn’t work.  Kids kicking a ball around, hearing ‘lived experiences’ and how people dug themselves out of their hole… that is real!

They see that people don’t do it on their own but by accepting help.  They see that talking about stuff can be a release and help them to make better decisions.  Paul often brings his dog to sessions – again, animals have this magic power.  They give unconditional love and ‘just get people’.  It really helps kids and adults open up.  

What Paul offers is what many of these kids miss – a relationship, a connection, someone they can relate to.  He offers unpressured opportunities, no taboos and a safe place.  Paul is ‘lived experience’ and we can all learn from what he has to offer.  As said, a true inspiration and a bit of magic for the kids”.

Steffi Thorhauer-White

Turnaround Practitioner

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Finlay Our Roving Reporter

Street interviews Dartford

I was put to a task working alongside the Youth Unity Creative Lead Paul McKenzie and Ben another Junior Reporter. The task was interviewing the people of Dartford prioritising young people and asking the community if they had any problems or concerns with their home town and what could be done to change it if they had all they money in the world.

This was my first experience within this role and meant stepping out of my comfort zone, and it made me really link in with the community, this experience improved my confidence, social awareness and communication skills, which will l hopefully lead on to further opportunities with Youth Unity

Findings

Our findings were that the people need to have a bit more excitement in the Dartford town to stop and help prevent people getting bored and then leading to getting involved in anti-social behavior illegal activity. Some of the young people said they wanted more youth provision.

Written by: Fin Hensman

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Testimony from Tendring Technology College;

Paul Robinson, Mentor

Since his time with us Paul’s input has been invaluable.  His determination to help our young people and real life examples ensure that he fosters a good rapport with our hard to reach students.

His real life grit and authenticity ensures that he is able to reason with our pupils and achieve desired outcomes and next steps in their lives and Education.

Paul provides our pupils with real life examples of his own past, as well as trying to make his stories relevant to their lives and the demographic that we serve.  Youth Unity is an asset to have in our arsenal of services that we use to help young people.

Safeguarding Officer 

Thorpe Campus

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James Hensman
Chief Operating Officer

James serves as our Chief Operating Officer at Youth Unity CIC with over 20 years experience and is the driving force behind strategic planning and operations, James significantly contributes to the success and growth of Youth Unity.  

James’s focus is on ensuring a Community wide focus on the core mission to deliver better outcomes for more young people and overseeing the development and delivery of the services.  This large and diverse portfolio of Early intervention and social care services is also focussed on partnership work, influencing  system change and responding to new and emergent vulnerabilities.

His dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable cohorts, coupled with his skill in fostering collaborative partnerships, enhances the organisation’s ability to effectively confront the challenges posed by criminal exploitation, county-lines, and organised crime vulnerability.

Motivated by a profound passion for facilitating quality improvement and providing support to vulnerable cohorts susceptible to gang and SYV related activities, James excels in working across diverse communities. He is adept at forging purposeful multi-agency partnerships that significantly enhance outcomes for those in need.  

Before joining Youth Unity CIC James worked for County Police forces and with Community Safety teams  delivering frontline training,  intervention services aimed at combating gangs, county-lines, and serious organised crime.  James brings a wealth of expertise in community engagement, strategic planning, integrated teams, commissioning  and collaborative partnerships with both Metropolitan, County police forces and CSP’s. His extensive experience extends to strategic planning for addressing gang-related issues and serious organised crime and as an advisory for Safeguarding partnerships, education trusts and regional NHS trusts.

Shirley Jackson

Shirley Jackson
Managing Director & Founder

Shirley Jackson brings a profound passion for youth to her pivotal role as the founder and Managing Director. Serving as an invaluable asset, she oversees and manages all facets of our operations.

With a rich background in project management, Shirley not only skilfully navigates the execution of many of our initiatives but ensures a seamless transition from concept to realisation.

Beyond her operational responsibilities, Shirley plays a vital role in the overall functioning of our organisation. Accumulating a wealth of knowledge over twenty-five years in marketing and branding on a global corporate landscape, she has collaborated with esteemed artists, agencies, and non-profit organisations. Shirley’s expertise extends to event management, making her a versatile professional with a diverse skill set that significantly benefits our company and the young individuals we serve.

In the last five years, Shirley has dedicated herself to youth intervention projects, particularly those addressing serious youth violence. Her hands-on approach and strategic vision have significantly impacted the lives of those at risk, providing pathways to positive change.

Apart from her impactful work in the youth intervention space, Shirley also spearheads all marketing materials and website design at Youth Unity. Her creative touch and attention to detail shine through in every aspect of our brand representation, ensuring that our mission and message resonate effectively.

Furthermore, Shirley conceptualised and launched a successful online radio station, showcasing her passion for music and communication. This platform not only serves as a beacon of support for various charities but also provides opportunities for up-and-coming talents.

Shirley’s core focus remains on empowering young individuals to lead fulfilling lives. Leveraging her extensive experience, she provides guidance and support, sharing valuable insights to help them navigate life’s challenges. Her commitment to the well-being of young people resonates in her work and interactions.

Her dedication to fostering happiness and fulfilment in the lives of young individuals propels her significant contributions to our organisation.

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Racing to School
collaborating with Youth Unity #horseracing

Racing to School is pleased to be collaborating with Youth Unity to engage young people in hard-to-reach communities, offering our free interactive and healthy outdoor Schools’ Education Programme to those pupils and their schools that might otherwise face financial barriers to accessing outdoor learning opportunities. Using racing’s venues to provide this unique learning experience, our fully inclusive and accessible activity days support the learning of a diverse young people through access to the assets and opportunities of horseracing.

Through this collaboration we aspire to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people across Great Britain; sparking a lightbulb moment and what we hope will be a lifelong interest in the sport. 

Racing to School is an education charity that aims to inspire young minds through the provision of free, interactive, and healthy outdoor educational events for schools, staged at a variety of racing venues. They achieved another record year in 2023, delivering 410 events across the country and engaging a diverse group of over 16,200 young people.

The charity works with young people with special educational needs and over one third of their output is targeted to engage those from inner city, rural and deprived areas. The staff have a range of industry backgrounds including former jockeys who have retrained to develop their second careers, and their experience is invaluable as the charity introduces horseracing as an accessible sport to young people.