Gillingham Marina From Above

Supporting Medway Council to Engage Young People in Gillingham​

by Medway CouncilNew Projects

Supporting Medway Council to Engage Young People in Gillingham

Youth Unity CIC is partnering with Medway Council’s Youth Services Team to deliver a bold new mobile outreach programme designed to reach young people where they are on the streets, in parks, and in the heart of their communities.

From December 2025 to March 2026, our mobile outreach van will roll into key areas of Gillingham, transforming public spaces into hubs of creativity, connection, and support.

Led by trauma-informed youth workers, each session provides young people with a safe space to talk, take part, and try something new from gaming to music production and creative workshops.

This work focuses on:

  • Reaching and supporting vulnerable young people early, before issues escalate.

  • Reducing anti-social behaviour through meaningful engagement and trust-building.

  • Offering creative alternatives that build skills, confidence, and belonging.

  • Strengthening connections between young people, local services, and their wider community.

By bringing opportunity directly to Gillingham’s streets, we’re helping young people find their voice, channel their energy, and see their potential.

Our partnership with Medway Council is about more than outreach it’s about changing the story for young people, one conversation at a time.

Panoramic view of the London skyline with Canary Wharf district and the runway of the City Airport in front during sunset time

City Airport

by London City AirportNew Projects

Empowering NEET Youth in Greenwich & Bexley:
A New Digital Training and Mentoring Initiative

Youth Unity CIC is proud to announce a new project aimed at empowering young people across Greenwich and Bexley, supported by the London City Airport Community Fund. The initiative focuses on helping NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) young people unlock their potential through online skills training and one-to-one guidance.

Tackling Local Challenges Head-On

Both Greenwich and Bexley face significant socio-economic challenges, from youth unemployment and educational inequality to the impacts of serious youth violence and anti-social behaviour. Many young people in these boroughs lack access to positive opportunities and pathways into meaningful employment.

At Youth Unity, we believe every young person deserves the chance to thrive. Our new project seeks to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity by offering digital access to accredited training courses, supported by personalised mentoring designed to help participants find direction and build confidence.

Our Vision: Reducing Risk, Raising Aspirations

The project’s key goals include:

  • Reducing vulnerability Engaging NEET youth in structured training to divert them from crime and anti-social behaviour.

  • Creating pathways into employment Offering courses aligned with local job markets and connecting participants with local employers.

  • Enhancing community safety Empowered, confident young people contribute to safer and more resilient communities.

Through targeted online learning and one-to-one mentorship, participants will gain not only practical job skills but also access to mental health resources, financial literacy training, and personal development tools.

Collaboration and Community

Youth Unity’s strength lies in its partnerships. We work closely with local schools, youth offending teams, community safety partnerships, housing associations, and social care services to reach young people most in need. This collaboration ensures that the right support reaches the right individuals, making lasting change possible.

We’re also inviting those who complete the program to stay involved as Youth Unity Ambassadors, supporting peers, shaping future projects, and giving back to their communities. These ambassadors will gain experience in youth work, develop leadership skills, and help co-design upcoming initiatives.

Measuring Impact

Success will be tracked through participant feedback, skills assessments, and employment outcomes from training completions to real-world job placements and apprenticeships. By combining data with personal stories, we aim to demonstrate tangible improvements in employability, confidence, and community engagement.

Celebrating Local Support

This project wouldn’t be possible without the support of the London City Airport Community Fund. Together, we’re investing in the future of East London’s youth building hope, skills, and safer neighbourhoods.

We’ll be sharing updates, stories, and outcomes from the project as it progresses, including interviews with participants and partners.

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Kent PCC Outreach

by KentNew Projects

Free Youth Activities in Dartford Town Centre this October

Youth Unity, in partnership with the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, is delighted to be offering free youth sessions in Dartford Town Centre during the October school break.

These sessions are designed to provide a safe, supportive, and engaging space for young people aged 10 and above. Our team will be delivering a wide range of activities, including sports, gaming, music, and performing arts. Each session offers young people the chance to try new things, meet new friends, and enjoy positive experiences in a welcoming environment.

Session Dates and Times

  • Tuesday 21st October: 3.30pm – 5.30pm

  • Wednesday 23rd October: 12.45pm – 3.30pm

  • Tuesday 28th October: 3.30pm – 5.30pm

Venue

Dartford Town Centre

Why Attend?

We know that school holidays can sometimes feel long or isolating for young people. Our aim is to provide a safe space that encourages creativity, connection, and confidence. These sessions are completely free of charge and open to anyone aged 10 and above, so no young person is excluded.

Youth Unity has a proven track record of delivering youth-led projects across the community, focusing on building resilience, wellbeing, and skills. With the support of the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, we are committed to offering opportunities that help young people thrive.

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Tall Ships Sailing

by EnrichmentNew Projects

Nine Young People, One Life-Changing Voyage

A week at sea they’ll never forget

In October 2025 we took nine incredible young people stepped aboard a Tall Ships Youth Trust vessel and sailed into an experience that none will forget. From the first safety brief to the final dock lines, they learned to helm, hoist, navigate, cook for the crew, and most importantly, trust themselves and each other. The smiles at the finish said it all: “I did that.”

We’ve captured the journey in tons of photos and video, from sunrise sails to belly-laugh dinners, so you can feel the wind and the buzz right alongside them. We also asked everyone to complete pre- and post-surveys to measure confidence, teamwork, resilience, and sense of belonging. We have publish those impact results on this page so you can see the growth in their own words and numbers.

“I didn’t know I could do things like this. Now I want to do more.” — Participant, age 14

What changed out there

  • Confidence: Young people took the helm, literally, and discovered they can lead.

  • Teamwork: Lines aren’t lifted alone; neither are goals. They learned to rely on one another.

  • Resilience: Early starts, real responsibility, and big seas built grit in the best way.

  • Belonging: Eight individuals returned as one crew.

A mentor who goes the extra mile (and nautical mile)

A huge shout-out to Simeon, one of Youth Unity’s dedicated mentors. He knew some of the young people already and met others for the first time on deck but by day two he’d turned a boatload of strangers into a crew. Simeon volunteered an entire week out of a packed schedule because his passion for young people is real. We’re certain the crew will remember his energy, humour, and steady guidance for a long time.

Thank you to the people who made it possible

We are profoundly grateful to Tall Ships for opening up the world of sail training and leadership to our young people, and to OSRL for sponsoring the voyage. Your belief in this experience created a safe, challenging, unforgettable week that will ripple through school, home, and community long after the boat is moored.

What’s next

This voyage proved what we already felt: experiences like this change trajectories. We’re committed to sharing the full story, photos, videos, and survey impact, right here. And we truly hope to continue this experience year on year, reaching more young people with the same mix of challenge, joy, and growth.

“One young person embraced the opportunities for leadership so much he’s been recommended to return as a volunteer.” 

Want a taste?

  • Check out the photo & video gallery.

  • Read the impact snapshot from our pre/post surveys.

  • Follow Youth Unity for updates about next year’s voyage.

Thank you, Tall Ships Youth Trust and your amazing team. Thank you, OSRL. And to your brilliant crew: you showed up, you worked hard, and you sailed your hearts out.

 

Link to TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST PHOTOS

Open Book

Special Thanks to Paul McKenzie for travelling down to video the start of the voyage

Mike & Will

Caleb

Thank you so much for bringing us this opportunity to thrive and live on a ship
Faiz
Faiz
I’ve always wanted to be on boats thank you for making this happen
Joshua Hart
Joshua Hart
I would like them to know that this is great for youths who aren't the most social because it gets everyone involved and you can choose what you like to do.
Cara Thompson
Cara Thompson
I was nearly forced to walk the plank which was funny and I learned different skills 🙂
Will
This voyage is important to increase your confidence and social life
Mike Antoszczak
I've learnt that even when on a troubling situation you should away remember that there are people with you to help you cop it, people to smile with and have fun with.
Mbwana abdulla rashid
my voyage highlights include making new friends and learning more skills
Caleb
Caleb
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The Cage

by Community DevelopmentLondon Borough of BexleyNew ProjectsPeabody Housing

The Cage Summer Programme:
Youth Voice, Art, and Community Impact

This summer, Youth Unity CIC delivered a six-week programme at The Cage in Thamesmead, following strong demand from young people who asked us to return after our first community event in June. Many told us they didn’t feel safe or welcome in the space — but also that they valued the positive, inclusive environment we created.

A Creative Collaboration

Working with C-That.co.uk, the project included a youth-driven art installation. Week after week, young people helped design and paint murals on the outer walls of The Cage, transforming the area into a space they could take pride in. This creative process gave participants a real sense of ownership and visibility.

Consistent Youth Engagement

Over six weeks, we delivered a mix of activities including sports, music recording, podcasting, and gaming. These sessions provided safe, structured alternatives and encouraged young people to return week after week. Attendance was strong across all age groups and backgrounds, showing clear demand for this kind of consistent, positive provision.

What We Found

Our engagement also highlighted some important safeguarding concerns:

  • Many younger children on the estate are often left unsupervised, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and grooming.

  • A significant number of young people have become desensitised to gang culture, seeing it as “just a way of life.”

  • This underlines the urgent need for trusted role models and safe, supportive spaces.

Recognition at the Highest Level

The programme concluded with a visit from the Deputy Mayor of London, who recognised the importance of this work and the value of investing in young people locally. Their presence reinforced that the voices of Thamesmead’s youth matter at both a community and city-wide level.

Impact and Outcomes

  • Reduced community tensions during a sensitive period.

  • Engagement of young people most at risk of anti-social behaviour.

  • Strengthened collaboration with schools, residents, and statutory partners.

  • Increased awareness of key safeguarding issues including vaping, littering, and weapons.

  • Six well-attended sessions that promoted wellbeing, community pride, and ownership of The Cage.

Partnership and Support

This programme was made possible through the ongoing support of Peabody Housing, whose funding and partnership ensure that vital community projects like this can continue to make a difference.

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Community Day

by Community DevelopmentLondon Borough of HaveringNew Projects

The Harold Hill Community Fun Day at Central Park was an incredible event, bringing local families, young people, and partners together for a day full of fun, connection, and community spirit.

Organised and driven by the Metropolitan Police, the day showcased the power of partnership working. All our partners were present, and it was fantastic to see so many familiar faces from the community we regularly engage with through our detached youth work.

From bouncy castles, face painting, and live music to meeting local emergency services, there was something for everyone. Beyond the activities, the real success of the day was the way it strengthened relationships across the community. These moments of coming together are vital for building trust, creating positive connections, and showing young people and families that support is always here when needed.

At Youth Unity CIC, we are proud to support events like these. They give us the opportunity to meet residents in a positive environment, listen to their voices, and continue to work hand in hand with the police, schools, and local partners to make a lasting impact.

As you can see from the photos and interviews, the day was more than just an event — it was a celebration of community. We look forward to being part of many more.

Silhouette group of colored profile children. Communication between multi-ethnic children. Children talking

Local Action to Improve Youth Wellbeing in Havering

by London Borough of HaveringNew ProjectsSchool WorkshopsWorkshops & Training

Local Action to Improve Youth Wellbeing in Havering

Youth Unity CIC will be delivering the Havering Youth Wellbeing Engagement Programme for the London Borough of Havering building on insights from the Havering Youth Wellbeing Census using the #BeeWell survey

The programme include two key initiatives: 

  1. Youth engagement in schools 
  2. Kailo  (delivered in partnership with UCLPartners). 

Both initiatives will involve working closely with schools, community partners, and local families to ensure that the voices of young people in Havering are truly heard and acted upon.  We believe that meaningful change comes when generations work together. That is why this programme will not only focus on youth engagement but also bring different generations together fostering understanding, respect, and shared purpose between young people and the wider community.

What’s involved?

  • Young people will use creative tools and activities in schools to explore the Havering Youth Wellbeing Census results around mental health and wellbeing, sharing ideas on how local leaders and services can better support them.
  • Already delivered in Newham and North Devon, Kailo is a framework aimed at helping local communities, young people and public service partnerships better understand and address the root causes (and wider determinants) of young people’s mental health. Young people will take part in a series of interactive workshops and work with local leaders to identify opportunities for improvement and co-design solutions.

What’s next?

The programme begins with a preparation phase in August 2025, followed by delivery from October 2025 to April 2026. We’re committed to working in partnership with the London Borough of Havering, schools, and community organisations to create positive, lasting change for young people in Havering.

Stay tuned for updates, stories, and opportunities to get involved as we move forward.

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The Cage

by London Borough of BexleyNew ProjectsPeabody Housing

🏀 The Cage Summer Programme – Empowering Thamesmead Youth

This summer, Youth Unity CIC is returning to The Cage, Thamesmead, for a powerful 6-week outreach programme – built on real feedback from local young people and backed by community support.

After the success of our June 2025 event, we heard loud and clear that many young people avoid The Cage because it doesn’t always feel safe or welcoming. So we’re coming back to change that – together.

🎯 What’s the Goal?

We’re here to make The Cage a place where young people feel safe, included, and proud to be. Through weekly sessions, we’re bringing:

  • 🌱 Positive engagement

  • 🗣️ Trusted role models

  • 🎨 Creative expression

  • 🏀 Fun activities shaped by youth voice

This isn’t just a drop-in programme – it’s part of a long-term commitment to build trust, reduce antisocial behaviour, and help young people reclaim their space.

📍 What’s Happening Each Week?

Every Tuesday | 3:30pm – 6:30pm | The Cage, Thamesmead
From sports and games to creative workshops and mentoring, our outreach van will be on-site with trained youth workers providing support and safe spaces.

🎨 We’re also launching a collaborative mural project with a local artist and Peabody – giving young people a chance to shape the space visually and take ownership in a powerful, visible way.

🌟 What We’re Aiming For:

  • Make The Cage a space where young people feel welcome

  • Offer consistent, trusted presence through experienced youth workers

  • Provide positive alternatives and mentoring

  • Improve wellbeing, connection, and pride in the local area

  • Reduce low-level anti-social behaviour through positive visibility

💬 Why It Matters

Too often, spaces like The Cage become overlooked or underused – not because they lack potential, but because they lack positive, consistent engagement.

This programme is about changing that narrative. With support from Peabody and local partners, we’re creating a platform for youth-led transformation.

🚀 What’s Next?

We’re ready to hit the ground running:

✔️ Staffing and planning underway
✔️ Art mural logistics in progress
✔️ Outreach van and kit on standby
✔️ Local promotion and school outreach launching soon

Together, we’re activating The Cage – not just for the summer, but for the future.Wolve

Commencing: 30th July 2025

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Redbridge Summer

by London Borough of HaveringLondon Borough of RedbridgeNew Projects

This summer, Youth Unity is proud to bring our Media Van and Youth Outreach Team to Manford Way Open Space, Ilford as part of the Redbridge Summer Program – and it’s completely FREE for young people!  We will also be running some street based walk abouts through the week to reach as many young people as possible.

We’re not just here for fun (though we promise there’s plenty of that). Our mission goes deeper it’s about empowering young people, offering alternatives to crime, and supporting those who need it most.

💡 What’s This All About?

Youth Unity is on a mission to reach and support children and young people (CYP) at risk of criminal exploitation. We’re out in areas with little youth provision, offering sports, gaming, music, creative arts, and most importantly – someone to talk to.

🎯 Our Key Objectives

We’re here to:

  • 💬 Engage young people who may be at risk or vulnerable to negative influences.

  • 🛤️ Guide them towards positive, fun, and life-building activities.

  • Be present in spaces where support is often lacking.

  • Gather insight into local youth trends, emerging risks, and hotspots for crime or antisocial behaviour.

  • Adapt to where young people are – we go where the need is.

  • Escalate serious concerns to the right authorities when needed.

🕒 When & Where?

We’ll be out and about at least twice a week regularly at:
Manford Way Open Space, 81 Woodman Path, Ilford IG6 3AX
🕧 Time: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM, every Thursday and various time through the week on street based walk about on Orchard Estate.

Our times and locations may shift depending on when and where young people are gathering  we’re flexible so we can make the biggest impact. But you’ll always see familiar faces from our team out in the community.

Why It Matters

Too many young people are falling through the cracks. Some don’t have anywhere safe to go. Others are at risk of being drawn into crime or exploitation.

By being visible, relatable, and consistent, Youth Unity offers an alternative – a path to connection, creativity, and community.

👏 Supported By

We’re grateful to have the support of Redbridge Council, helping us make this intervention possible.

Together, we’re offering a safe space for young people – and building a better, safer community for all.

Commencing: 31st July 2025

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Harold Hill

by London Borough of HaveringNew ProjectsPeabody Housing

🌞 Harold Hill Summer Program: Free Activities for Young People This Summer!

We’re excited to announce our Harold Hill Summer Program, a series of free weekly sessions for young people aged 12 to 18. These sessions are designed to provide a safe, fun, and supportive environment during the school holidays—using the power of sport, gaming, music, and arts to inspire positive change.

📍 Locations & Times

  • Mondays – Central Park (Next to the basketball courts), 2:00pm – 4:30pm

  • Fridays – Hilldene Shops (Farnham Road), 4:00pm – 6:30pm

Backed by the Metropolitan Police and delivered by Youth Unity CIC, these sessions are more than just fun and games. They’re built around a proven approach to engagement, mentoring, and youth development, with trained youth workers and a mobile outreach unit on site.

What’s on offer?

  • 🏀 Sports & fitness activities

  • 🎮 Gaming and competitions

  • 🎨 Creative arts and music

  • 🎤 Informal mentoring and conversations

  • 🚐 Access to our fully equipped Mobile Youth Hub

We’ve designed this program with inclusion in mind—whether you’re into sports, creative arts, or just need a safe space to hang out, there’s something for everyone.

Why Harold Hill?
Harold Hill continues to be a key area of focus in our community work, and thanks to our strong local partnerships and support from the Havering Metropolitan Police, we’ve been able to expand our reach with this exciting summer provision. We’re proud to be a trusted grassroots organisation working directly with young people, families, and local services to build a safer and more positive environment as part of the “Our Harold Hill” Clear Hold Build initiative.

Let’s make this summer one to remember 🌟

Commencing: 28th July 2025