London Borough of Havering Archives

Rethreaded End Report

09/06/2026

by Shirley Jackson London Borough of Havering ReThreaded

RETHREADED: When a Fashion Project Became So Much More

A sustainable fashion and creative wellbeing programme delivered by Youth Unity CIC, supported by Park Charitable Trust for Girls

When RETHREADED launched in February 2026, it was designed as a 12-week sustainable fashion project, a chance for young girls to explore creativity, confidence and self-expression through design and upcycling. Twelve weeks later, it had grown into something none of us quite expected: a safe space, a friendship circle, and a genuine community.

From strangers to a friendship circle

We began with a cohort of 14 girls, many of whom had never met before. What happened over the following weeks was a quiet kind of magic. The group settled into one another, built trust, and turned a weekly workshop into a place they genuinely looked forward to.

The original plan was simple: six weeks with an older group, then six weeks with a younger one. But the first cohort didn’t want to leave. Instead of stepping back, the older girls chose to stay and naturally began mentoring and encouraging the younger participants as they joined. That single decision shaped everything that followed: stronger relationships, growing confidence among the younger members, and a real sense of belonging and ownership across the whole group.

Creativity on their own terms

Working with sustainable and upcycled materials, the girls designed and made a range of unique fashion pieces. We’d originally imagined a commercial angle a TikTok Shop where the group could sell what they made. But as the sessions went on, the girls became far more interested in creating personal pieces for themselves than producing items to sell.

We followed their lead, and it was the right call. Letting the young people steer the direction of the programme guided by their own interests, confidence and creativity is exactly what youth-led work should look like. Along the way they showed real individuality, problem-solving, teamwork and a visible pride in their work. One participant even wore and modelled her own design while away on holiday, a small moment that said everything about the confidence she’d built.

A space to grow

Beyond the sewing machines and fabric, RETHREADED became a trusted, emotionally safe environment. The sessions opened up natural conversations about confidence, identity, self-image and sustainability, and gave the girls a place to express themselves without fear of judgement. The friendships and support networks formed here are, for many, the part that will last longest.

Celebrating together

We closed the programme with a private celebration and fashion showcase at The Battis Youth Hub, where the girls shared the pieces they’d created. Keeping it intimate was a deliberate choice a comfortable space for the participants to feel proud of their work among people they trust. A professional filmmaker joined us to capture the journey, creating a lasting legacy piece of everything the group achieved.

More than a fashion project

RETHREADED became a confidence-building programme, a peer support network, a creative wellbeing project and a platform for self-expression. It’s shown us just how much value there is in safe, youth-led spaces where girls can explore who they are — and it’s left us excited about what comes next.

With thanks to Park Charitable Trust for Girls for making this programme possible.

WhatsApp Image 2026-03-04 at 09.05.41 (2)

Session 2: Charity Shop Creative Hunt

04/03/2026

by Shirley Jackson London Borough of Havering ReThreaded

Session 2: Charity Shop Creative Hunt

Our second session of the Rethreaded Fashion Project was all about inspiration, creativity, and exploring sustainable fashion in the local community.

This week we took the group of girls on a visit to several local charity shops, giving them the opportunity to hunt for interesting pieces that could later be reimagined and transformed into new designs. The idea behind this session was to encourage the group to start looking at clothing differently — not just as finished items, but as materials that can be repurposed, redesigned, and given a completely new life.

The girls quickly got into the spirit of the session, browsing through rails of clothes and accessories, sharing ideas with each other, and spotting pieces that stood out to them. There was lots of excitement as they discovered unique items, from statement jackets to vintage fabrics and accessories that could be used creatively in future designs.

Each participant chose a few items that inspired them, thinking about how these could be upcycled or redesigned in the upcoming workshops. It was great to see the group working together, offering suggestions to one another and starting to develop ideas for what their final pieces might look like.

The trip also helped highlight an important part of the Rethreaded project’s message — that fashion doesn’t always need to be new to be exciting. By exploring charity shops and second-hand clothing, the young people are learning about sustainability, creativity, and the value of reusing materials, while also developing confidence in their own design ideas.

Back at the hub, the group shared their finds and talked about how they might transform them in the next stage of the project. From cutting and reshaping garments to adding new fabrics and details, the possibilities are already sparking plenty of imagination.

We can’t wait to see what the group creates next as they begin turning their charity shop finds into unique, upcycled fashion pieces.

The creativity is only just getting started.

Rethreaded Session Day 1

19/02/2026

by Shirley Jackson London Borough of Havering ReThreaded

This week we welcomed the first group of young people to our Rethreaded Sustainable Fashion Project and what a brilliant start it was.

Although we had a smaller group than expected due to the school break and other commitments, the session felt focused, creative and full of potential. Sometimes smaller groups allow for deeper conversations and stronger connections and that was certainly the case.

The girls spent time getting to know each other, sharing ideas and beginning to sketch their own design concepts. From bold statement pieces to creative re-imagining of everyday clothing, it was inspiring to see their individuality already shining through. There was real excitement in the room as ideas started turning into rough designs on paper.

Rethreaded is about much more than fashion. As outlined in our session plan

Rethreaded Lession 1 the project is designed to build:

Confidence
Self-expression
Creativity
Peer connection
A sense of belonging

This first session focused on creating a safe, welcoming space where every idea mattered. The young people explored what fashion means to them, how creativity connects to identity, and what they hope to gain from the project over the coming weeks.

Next week we’ll begin developing these initial sketches further and exploring sustainable materials and upcycling. The energy is building already and we’re excited to welcome the full group back together.

This is just the beginning of something special.

BEYOND THE BUZZ

17/01/2026

by Shirley Jackson London Borough of Havering Podcasting

New Podcast Launch: Beyond the Buzz — Youth Voices on Drugs, Choices and Change

Youth Unity CIC is proud to launch Beyond the Buzz, a new youth-led podcast series developed in partnership with Havering Council, giving young people a platform to speak openly and honestly about drugs, alcohol, peer pressure and the choices they face.

Beyond the Buzz brings together authentic youth voices, professional insight and lived experience, creating open conversations that support prevention, education and better understanding between young people, parents and professionals

Honest Conversations Led by Young People

At the heart of Beyond the Buzz is a commitment to youth voice. Young people are involved in:

Choosing discussion topics
Hosting and leading conversations
Interviewing guests
Shaping the final episodes

Through podcast training and creative workshops, participants build confidence, communication skills and technical media experience, while also developing the confidence to speak about difficult topics in a safe and supported environment

What Topics Does the Podcast Cover?

Each episode explores real issues that affect young people and families, including:

Drug and alcohol misuse
Peer pressure and social expectations
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
School and education challenges
Youth slang and hidden terminology used around substances
Recovery journeys and positive change

The aim is not to lecture, but to inform, reflect and empower, helping young people understand risks while also hearing stories of resilience and recovery from those with lived experience

Bridging the Gap Between Young People and Adults

Beyond the Buzz is designed to support not only young people, but also:

Parents and carers
Schools and safeguarding leads
Youth and community professionals

By explaining terminology, trends and pressures that young people face, the podcast helps adults better understand modern drug culture and the realities young people navigate, improving communication and early intervention opportunities

Education, Prevention and Positive Futures

The podcast forms part of Youth Unity’s wider commitment to early help, prevention and safeguarding-led youth engagement. Episodes will be promoted through:

Schools and PSHE programmes
Youth services and community settings
Online podcast platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Targeted social media campaigns

This ensures that learning and awareness extend beyond those taking part in recording, reaching the wider community with trusted, youth-informed messages

Building Skills, Confidence and Voice

For the young people involved, Beyond the Buzz supports:

Confidence and public speaking
Teamwork and listening skills
Digital and media production experience
Emotional expression and reflection
Understanding consequences and making informed choices

These transferable skills support wider education and employment pathways, while strengthening young people’s sense of ownership and positive identity within their communities

Looking Ahead

The pilot phase of Beyond the Buzz will deliver 10+ podcast episodes, followed by evaluation, youth feedback and impact reporting to inform future expansion across schools and youth settings in Havering and beyond.

Youth Unity CIC is proud to work alongside statutory partners to ensure that prevention work is not only informative, but shaped directly by the voices of those it is designed to support.

FAILING FORWARDS

17/01/2026

by Shirley Jackson London Borough of Havering Podcasting

Youth Unity CIC is proud to support Failing Forwards, a youth-led podcast created through the MYENDS Romford programme in Havering, giving young people a powerful platform to share their experiences, challenge stereotypes and speak openly about the realities of growing up in today’s communities.

Failing Forwards is not about polished performances or adult-led narratives. It is about real conversations, real experiences and real voices, led by young people who are often talked about, but rarely listened to.

A Platform for Honest Conversations

Through Failing Forwards, young people explore topics that directly affect their lives, including:

Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Education and school experiences
Drug misuse and peer pressure
Anti-social behaviour and community tensions
Knife crime and fear of violence
Confidence, identity and future aspirations

These conversations are raw, honest and reflective, allowing young people to speak openly about challenges, mistakes and the lessons they have learned along the way.

The aim is not to sensationalise experiences, but to create space for reflection, accountability and growth, while helping young people recognise their own resilience and potential.

Why Youth-Led Podcasting Matters

Podcasting provides young people with more than just a creative outlet. It supports:

Confidence and communication skills
Emotional expression and self-reflection
Positive peer discussion and listening skills
Digital and media experience
A sense of agency and ownership over their stories

By shaping the topics, leading discussions and contributing to production, participants develop confidence in sharing their perspectives and understanding that their voices have value.

All recordings take place in supported environments, with trained youth workers facilitating sessions and ensuring safeguarding and wellbeing are always prioritised.

Challenging Stereotypes and Changing Narratives

Failing Forwards also plays an important role in challenging negative stereotypes about young people in areas affected by deprivation and community safety concerns.

Instead of statistics and headlines, listeners hear directly from young people about:

What pressures they face
What support they feel is missing
What helps them stay focused and positive
What they want adults and decision-makers to understand

These lived experiences provide powerful insight for professionals, services and local partners working in prevention, education and youth support.

Part of the Wider MYENDS Romford Programme

The podcast forms part of Youth Unity’s wider delivery within the MYENDS Romford initiative, which focuses on early intervention, violence prevention and supporting young people at risk of exploitation or harm through relationship-based youth work, mentoring and creative engagement.

By combining direct support with creative platforms such as podcasting, the programme helps young people develop confidence while also contributing to community learning and service improvement.

Listening Leads to Change

Failing Forwards is about more than sharing stories — it is about creating understanding, building trust and opening pathways to positive change.

When young people are heard, valued and supported, they are more likely to engage positively with education, services and their communities. This podcast is one way Youth Unity and MYENDS are working to ensure young people are not just supported, but actively involved in shaping conversations about their futures.

Youth Space Romford

30/11/2025

by admin London Borough of Havering The Battis

Transforming a Forgotten Space into a Place for Young People to Thrive

For years, a side section of ATIK Nightclub in Romford has sat unused and forgotten after the venue closed its doors. Now, that space is about to begin a new chapter — one that puts young people and the community first.

“Urban Sketch, have generously made this enclosed area available to Youth Unity whilst their planning application of the ATIK site is decided and redevelopment is readied. Once their new mixed-use development is complete, we hope to work with them further by opening up the building to the community”.

Today, with the incredible support of the Community Payback Team, the area was cleaned and cleared, marking the first step toward bringing this space back to life.

A Safe Space for Young People

For a long time, Youth Unity has been talking with local young people about what they truly want and need. The message is clear and consistent:
They want a safe place to come together, to socialise, to have fun, and to feel supported by trusted adults.

Romford has faced challenges with young people gathering in shopping areas and public spaces. This is often misunderstood as “bad behaviour,” when in reality it is young people doing what young people do — trying to find somewhere to belong. The problem isn’t the young people. The problem is the lack of welcoming, safe spaces.

Youth Unity aims to change that.

Our Vision

We want to turn this enclosed space into a vibrant, inclusive hub where young people can:

socialise safely
play sports and games
express creativity through art
connect with positive role models
build confidence and community

But we can’t do it alone.

How You Can Help

We are calling on local businesses, builders, tradespeople and community partners to help us make this project happen.

Here are just a few ways you can support:

Donate materials or labour to help build a simple roof / shelter
Sponsor equipment such as:
- table tennis tables
- basketball hoop
- seating and tables
Sponsor creative installations (murals, artwork, lighting)
Sponsor or donate skills and time

Youth Unity is also actively seeking funding to provide trained staff and youth workers to run the sessions so we can ensure the space is safe, supported, and well-managed.

This space isn’t just for young people, it’s for the whole community. We welcome conversations with anyone who would like to collaborate and help shape this into something special.

Everything has to start somewhere.
And this is our beginning.

If you’d like to support or get involved, please contact us today.

Multicultural happy friends having fun taking group selfie portrait on city street - Multiracial young people celebrating laughing together outdoors - Happy lifestyle concept

Kailo Project

27/11/2025

by admin #BEWELL Project London Borough of Havering UCL Partners

What is KAILO?

KAILO is a project where young people work together to design better ways to support mental health and wellbeing. Local young people in Havering told us one thing clearly: there’s a big need to feel more welcomed, valued, and supported.

Now, we’re inviting you to be part of the solution.

Together, we’ll explore real ideas that can help make Havering a place where every young person feels connected — no matter their background, race, gender, or sexuality. Your ideas won’t just be talked about. They’ll be shared with the people who can make real change happen.

Open Book

Join KAILO and Help Shape the Future for Young People in Havering

Want to make a real difference to young people’s lives in Havering?
KAILO is your chance to be heard, and to help create change that actually matters.

Why get involved?

Because your voice matters.
Because change starts with young people.
Because you know what needs improving better than anyone else.

We’re looking for young people who:

Are aged 16–19
Live in Havering
Care about making things better — whether that’s tackling discrimination, building a sense of belonging, or improving support for young people

What will you do?

You’ll take part in group sessions where you’ll share ideas, learn from others, and help design improvements to young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Time commitment:

Sessions once every 1–2 weeks for about 4 months
Each session lasts 2–3 hours
Held on weekday evenings
Designed to be flexible, supportive, and built around you

You’ll work with a group of around 8–12 people, including:

Other young people from Havering
The KAILO team
Adults from youth services, schools, mental health services, local government, and community organisations

What’s in it for you?

Your time and voice are valued — and you’ll be supported every step of the way:

✅ You’ll be paid for your time
✅ Travel costs are covered
✅ Food is provided at every session
✅ You’ll receive a certificate for your CV, college, or job applications
✅ You’ll gain confidence, experience, and new skills
✅ You’ll help shape what happens next for young people in your area

Ready to be part of something meaningful?

Diverse international group of women or girl hugging together. Sisterhood, friends, union of feminists, event celebration. Girls team on isolated background with copy space. Flat vector illustration.

White Ribbon Day, Havering

25/11/2025

by admin London Borough of Havering New Projects

White Ribbon Day 2025

Youth Unity were honoured to attend the Havering Men Challenging Men VAWG Conference, held at the Town Hall to mark White Ribbon Day 2025. The event brought together professionals, community leaders, and youth-focused organisations to stand in solidarity against violence towards women and girls, as outlined in the conference agenda.

One of the most powerful moments of the day came from Simeon Dennis, one of our dedicated mentors, who stood to speak about our work on the WAVE Programme. Simeon also shared his own personal reflections on how domestic violence has shaped his life growing up with four sisters. His honesty and courage offered a crucial reminder of why this work matters—and why engaging men and boys is essential in creating long-term change.

At Youth Unity, we remain committed to:

Educating young males on boundaries, respect, and positive masculinity.
Supporting young females who may be at risk of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE).
Delivering early-intervention programmes that challenge harmful attitudes before they become harmful behaviours.
Standing alongside partners across Havering to build safer communities for all.

We extend our sincere thanks to Havering Council for inviting us to take part in this meaningful event and for their continued commitment to tackling VAWG within the borough. It was a privilege to join the wider community in raising the White Ribbon flag and participating in the solidarity march that followed.

Youth Unity will continue working with local partners to empower young people, create safer spaces, and challenge the cultural norms that allow violence against women and girls to persist.

Together, we stand for change.

Local Action to Improve Youth Wellbeing in Havering

12/08/2025

by admin London Borough of Havering New Projects School Workshops Workshops & 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:

Youth engagement in schools
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.

Harold Hill

25/07/2025

by admin London Borough of Havering Metropolitan Police New Projects Outreach

🌞 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

Commissioning us?

RETHREADED: When a Fashion Project Became So Much More

From strangers to a friendship circle

Creativity on their own terms

A space to grow

Celebrating together

More than a fashion project

Session 2: Charity Shop Creative Hunt

Transforming a Forgotten Space into a Place for Young People to Thrive

Today, with the incredible support of the Community Payback Team, the area was cleaned and cleared, marking the first step toward bringing this space back to life.

A Safe Space for Young People

Our Vision

How You Can Help

What is KAILO?

Join KAILO and Help Shape the Future for Young People in Havering

Why get involved?

What will you do?

What’s in it for you?

Ready to be part of something meaningful?

White Ribbon Day 2025