Supporting Clacton's Young People: Insights from Our Detached Youth Work Sessions
When we first launched our detached youth work sessions in Jaywick back in May 2024, our goal was clear—to provide a safe, supportive space for young people to engage, express themselves, and access the help they need. These sessions quickly became a lifeline for many, offering structured activities, guidance, and a sense of community.
However, as time went on, we realised that our impact could be even greater if we shifted focus. While Jaywick had its needs, we saw a huge opportunity in Clacton Town Centre—a key area where young people naturally gather, socialise, and seek support. So, in September 2024, we took that step, expanding our outreach to Clacton Town Centre and Clacton Leisure Centre to reach more young people where they are.
What We’ve Seen & Done
Jaywick: A Meaningful Start
Our Jaywick sessions introduced football, arts and crafts, and youth discussions, creating a safe environment for young people to relax and open up.
- We engaged young people from all backgrounds, including those from disadvantaged households and foster care.
- Some of the young people we met were struggling with education, home life, and self-care, our team stepped in with advice and guidance.
- We supported a talented gymnast in overcoming financial and transport barriers to attend a local club.
- Families facing eviction and social challenges found a listening ear and connections to support services.
- As funding constraints and the colder months set in, we shifted focus to Clacton, while keeping plans in place to restart Jaywick sessions in Spring 2025.
Clacton: Reaching More Young People
Moving to Clacton Town Centre and Clacton Leisure Centre has significantly increased our impact:
- Town Centre Engagement: We regularly meet young people after school, providing guidance, signposting support, and a trusted presence in their daily routine.
- Helping Families in Crisis: We met a mother of five living in a hotel due to a house fire. Her daughter, struggling with self-harm and school attendance, needed urgent help.
- Strengthening Partnerships: Conversations with local police help us identify young people in need and create better support systems.
Skate Park & Leisure Centre: A Hub of Opportunity & Challenges
- We’ve connected with 25+ young people at the skate park, discussing music, school, and future aspirations.
- Young people loved the idea of a mobile youth club, which we’re actively exploring.
- We’ve noticed a growing number of NEET young people (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) spending their days at the skate park. This raises serious concerns about educational oversight and future prospects.
- Accessibility is a major barrier; many young people can’t afford the Leisure Centre, making public spaces like the skate park even more crucial.
- Team Kinetix’s free Parkour sessions & hot food were a great idea, but some young people felt left out, a reminder that engagement must be inclusive and youth-led.
The Real Challenges Young People Face
Throughout our work, we’ve heard tough stories and seen real struggles:
🔹 Education Barriers – Some young people haven’t been in full-time education for years due to placement issues, relocation, or bullying.
🔹 Mental Health Concerns; Many express hopelessness about their future, and some spend hours outside in the cold, feeling lost.
🔹 Community & Space Issues; Some young people feel excluded from local facilities due to cost barriers, while others feel pushed out of their spaces when organised activities take over.
However, as time went on, we realised that our impact could be even greater if we shifted focus. While Jaywick had its needs, we saw a huge opportunity in Clacton Town Centre; a key area where young people naturally gather, socialise, and seek support.
What’s Next? Turning Impact into Action
We’re building on what we’ve learned and taking action to provide even stronger support, subject to us obtaining funding to continue this amazing work.
✅ Expanding Our Presence – We’re introducing a youth engagement van with equipment to make our sessions even more accessible and dynamic.
✅ Collaborating for Change – We’re working with TDC, Connect, and the Leisure Centre to improve accessibility, offer food support, and create aspirational opportunities.
✅ Providing Safe Spaces – We’re pushing for warm, welcoming places where young people can connect, socialise, and get support when they need it.
Why This Work Matters
Our move from Jaywick to Clacton has reinforced one clear truth: young people need trusted adults who show up, listen, and act.
By being present, building trust, and providing real solutions to real problems, we’re helping young people feel seen, valued, and hopeful about their future.
We’re committed to keeping this momentum going—because every young person deserves to feel supported, empowered, and heard.
Thank you to everyone who has supported our journey so far!
