Stone Parish Council
Exciting New Youth Services Launch at Stone Recreation Grounds
Youth Unity is proud to announce a new partnership with Stone Parish Council, bringing exciting new youth services to the heart of the community.
We are now delivering vibrant, free youth sessions every Monday and Wednesday from 3:15 PM to 5:30 PM at Stone Recreation Grounds.
What’s On Offer
Our programme offers a variety of engaging activities designed to promote physical wellbeing and teamwork. Young people can take part in:
Football
Table Tennis
Basketball
These sessions encourage young people to get active, develop skills, and enjoy positive social interaction in a safe and welcoming environment.
Beyond Sports: Mentoring and Support
What makes this programme unique is our commitment to holistic youth development. Our experienced youth workers will be on-site at every session to provide:
Positive guidance
Mentoring and emotional support
A trusted presence in the community
This initiative offers a valuable space for young people to grow, connect, and feel empowered in their everyday lives.
Join Us
We welcome all young people to come along, get involved, and discover something new. Whether it’s trying out a new sport, talking to a youth worker, or simply spending time with friends, there’s something for everyone.
We look forward to seeing you there and building something great together.
Crucial Crew
Workshops for Vaping
Crucial Crew 2025:
Helping Young People Make Safer Choices
In June 2025, Youth Unity was proud to support the Uttlesford Community Safety Partnership by delivering a series of engaging workshops on the dangers of vaping as part of the long-running Crucial Crew initiative.
Held at Bridge End Gardens in Saffron Walden, the four-day event welcomed approximately 750 Year 6 pupils from 26 primary schools across Uttlesford. Alongside partners such as Essex Police, Essex County Fire & Rescue Service, and local safeguarding teams, Youth Unity played a key role in equipping young people with the knowledge and confidence they need to make safer choices as they transition to secondary school.
The vaping awareness sessions explored the health risks, social pressures, and long-term consequences of vaping, encouraging pupils to think critically and responsibly. The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback from schools, and we were pleased to be part of such a collaborative effort to invest in early intervention and education.
W.A.V.E, Women Advocating Violence Elimination
A Powerful New Project Supporting Young Women in Havering
Youth Unity, in partnership with The Third Space Youth, is proud to launch W.A.V.E. (Women Advocating Violence Elimination) a new mentoring and empowerment initiative supporting young women across the London Borough of Havering. Working with the MyEndz project in Havering’s Community Safety Team.
This project was developed in direct response to conversations with over 40 young women from the borough, who highlighted the urgent need for safe, inclusive spaces and better representation. W.A.V.E. FORWARD addresses those needs by providing support, skill-building opportunities, and a platform for youth voice.
What the Programme Offers
Delivered jointly by Youth Unity and The Third Space Youth, W.A.V.E. FORWARD includes one-to-one mentoring, group workshops, and creative youth-led engagement to:
Provide a safe space to explore identity, relationships, confidence, and wellbeing
Build life skills and resilience through trauma-informed mentoring
Educate young people on issues such as violence against women, peer pressure, and online safety
Launch a youth-led podcast platform in collaboration with Havering Youth Council
Establish a team of Violence Against Women Ambassadors to lead peer advocacy and community awareness campaigns
Why This Matters
Young women in Havering continue to face challenges including harassment, exploitation, and limited access to support that reflects their lived experience. Many feel silenced or overlooked both within their communities and by the systems around them. W.A.V.E. provides not only support, but a space for growth, leadership, and long-term change.
Delivery and Impact
This project is delivered by experienced female mentors trained in trauma-informed practice, youth safety, and exploitation awareness. Mentors work with young women aged 11 to 25 through both outreach and site-based sessions at the Romford Youth Hub.
Our partnership approach ensures the support is community-led, culturally aware, and reflective of the voices we serve.
Get Involved
We invite local schools, youth services, and community partners to connect with us and explore ways to refer young people or collaborate. If you are supporting a young woman who could benefit from W.A.V.E., or want to learn more, we’d love to hear from you.
Together with The Third Space Youth, we’re proud to move W.A.V.E.
Havering Educational Services
Youth Unity Approved as a Supplier for Havering Educational Services
We are proud to announce that Youth Unity CIC is now an approved supplier for Havering Educational Services.
This achievement is a significant milestone for our organisation, reflecting the high standards of practice, safeguarding, and youth support that we bring to every programme we deliver. Our approval follows a thorough quality assurance process, ensuring that Youth Unity meets the strict criteria required to work with schools, colleges, and young people across Havering.
Our mentoring, intervention, and outreach services have been independently reviewed, and we have been recognised for:
Our commitment to safeguarding and child protection.
Our proven track record of positive engagement with young people.
The professionalism and experience of our mentors and youth workers.
Our ability to deliver impactful, evidence-based programmes that meet the needs of young people today.
Through this partnership, schools and education providers in Havering can now confidently access Youth Unity’s services to support students with mentoring, personal development, life skills training, early intervention programmes, and more.
We are excited about the opportunities this approval brings and remain committed to empowering young people, building resilience, and helping them unlock their full potential.
If you would like to learn more about how Youth Unity can support your school or organisation, please get in touch. Together, we can make a lasting difference.
Barking & Dagenham
In response to recent critical incidents affecting the local area, Youth Unity will be delivering a dedicated 6-week programme of detached youth work, aimed at providing a visible, supportive presence within the community. These sessions have been a vital part of our early intervention strategy, offering a safe, approachable space for young people during a particularly challenging time.
Our experienced youth team has been engaging with young people directly on the streets and in community hotspots listening, supporting, and building trust. Through consistent outreach, we’ve been able to create meaningful connections, offer guidance, and signpost to services that promote positive choices and personal development.
The detached sessions are about more than just presence; they’re about offering stability, reassurance, and a non-judgmental space where young people feel heard. We’ve seen encouraging engagement, with many young people sharing their concerns, ideas, and experiences.
Youth Unity is committed to ensuring that young people feel safe, supported, and empowered, especially during times of heightened tension or uncertainty. These sessions are a testament to the power of consistent, community-focused youth work in helping young people navigate difficult environments.
Supporting Tendring’s Young People
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!
Empowering Youth Through Boxing and Fitness Sessions in Debden
We’re pumped to announce free weekly boxing and fitness coaching sessions just for young people aged 11 to 16 in the Debden area of Epping! Whether you’re looking to get active, learn new skills, or just try something fun, this is your chance to get involved.
👊 What’s in it for you?
- Learn awesome boxing moves and boost your fitness.
- Train with top coaches in a safe, friendly space.
- Meet new mates and have a blast while staying active!
✨ Who can join?
These sessions are open to both girls and boys aged 11–16. No experience? No problem! Just bring your energy and we’ll take care of the rest.
11 to 13 year olds Monday 4.30 to 5.30pm
14 to 16 year olds Friday 4.30pm to 5.30pm
📆 When and Where?
Two sessions a week, kicking off from 10th February through to the end of March. Don’t miss your chance to get involved in this epic pilot project!
Dennis & Dyer Boxing Gym 30 Barrington Grn, Debden, Loughton IG10 (on the corner of Debden High Street)
💥 It’s completely FREE!
All you need to do is register (so we can get parental permissions sorted). Don’t worry if you can’t sign up straight away – just drop in, grab the forms, and join the next session once registered.
This project, proudly funded by ECVYS, is all about giving young people in Debden a positive way to stay active and connected. Don’t miss out – grab your friends, get involved, and make this your time to shine!
Empowering Futures: Transformative Educational Programs at Limes Farm Primary School – PFCC
In an inspiring initiative aimed at fostering positive development among young people, Youth Unity CIC www.youthunity.org in partnership with Limes Farm Primary School has successfully implemented a comprehensive program that combines transition-based education, one-to-one mentoring, and engaging after-school activities. This innovative approach has also been designed to support students during critical hours between 3pm and 6pm, often referred to as the “lost hours,” when many children are most vulnerable to negative influences.
At the heart of this program is the recognition that the transition from primary to secondary school can be a challenging period for many students. By integrating tailored educational support with dedicated mentoring, Youth Unity CIC has looked to enhance academic achievement but also equipping pupils with the social skills and resilience needed to navigate their formative years. The one-to-one mentoring sessions provide personalised guidance, helping pupils set goals, build confidence, and develop a strong sense of self-worth.
The after-school activities play a crucial role in keeping young people engaged in positive pursuits. From sports and arts to academic clubs and life skills workshops, these activities offer students a constructive outlet for their energy and creativity. Importantly, they also serve as a deterrent against anti-social behaviour (ASB) and criminal exploitation, which can often arise during unstructured time.
There has been reports of a reduction in ASB and criminal exploitation in the area since the program’s inception. By providing a safe and supportive environment, Youth Unity CIC is not only addressing immediate concerns but also laying the groundwork for a brighter future for its students. The skills and experiences gained during these formative years are invaluable as students prepare to transition to secondary school, instilling a sense of responsibility and community engagement that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Parents and guardians have expressed their welcomed the initiative, highlighting the positive changes they have observed in their children. Increased attendance, improved behaviour, and a newfound enthusiasm for learning are just a few of the benefits that have emerged from this holistic approach to education.
As the program continues to evolve, Youth Unity CIC remains committed to fostering a nurturing environment that prioritiSes the well-being for those participants. By combining transition-based education, personalised mentorship, and enriching after-school activities, Youth unity CIC IS not only preparing young people for secondary education but also empowering them to become positive contributors to their community.
Simeon – “in every challenge a young person may face, there lies an opportunity for growth. My role is to help and them see that and work towards a positive future”
Showcasing Our New Artwork at Romford Unity Hub
This week has been truly special at the Romford Unity Hub as we unveiled a new, vibrant piece of art to mark our official opening. The response from the community has been incredible, with people of all ages stopping by to admire the creativity on display.
The new artwork, designed to embody the spirit of unity and community, was painted with great care and attention by the talented artist Cize_One, symbolising our commitment to making the hub a welcoming and safe space for all. This initiative was made possible through our partnership with Havering Council’s Community Safety Partnership. During the process, we received enthusiastic feedback from passersby. Families, young people, and even the local police paused to watch the painting take shape, sharing words of praise and excitement. It was heartening to witness such positivity and support from the local community.
We hope this colourful addition will serve as a beacon, drawing in young people from Romford and beyond. Our vision for the Romford Unity Hub is to create a vibrant environment where young individuals can come to feel safe, seek advice, and enjoy spending time together. The new mural is just the beginning, representing the promise of growth, creativity, and collaboration.
As we continue to develop this space, we invite everyone to come and see the art, explore what the hub has to offer, and join in our journey. The Romford Unity Hub is now open, and we are excited to welcome the community to be part of this shared experience. We are also pleased to announce that we will be holding a soft launch in December, providing an opportunity for more people to visit and celebrate the start of this new chapter with us.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
