Views of the beachfront at Clacton on Sea in Essex in the United Kingdom

Supporting Tendring’s Young People

by ECVYSEssexMentoringNew ProjectsTendring

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!

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Empowering Youth Through Boxing and Fitness Sessions in Debden

by ECVYSEpping Forest District CouncilEssexNew ProjectsSports & Fitness
SIGN UP FORM

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!

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New Youth Hub Opens in Romford to Support Young People

by Community DevelopmentLondon Borough of HaveringNew ProjectsPartnership working

This week (29th January) marked the official launch of our brand-new youth hub in Romford, a vital initiative made possible thanks to the generous support of Transport for London (TFL) and the Havering Community Service Partnership Team, with funding provided by the Violence Reduction Unit (MOPAC). This space has been created to offer young people a safe and welcoming environment, where they can access mentoring, guidance, and support.

At the hub, we provide 1:1 mentoring for young people aged 14 to 25 through referrals. Our professional youth workers are dedicated to creating a positive and engaging space, offering support on a range of topics, from education and career advice to personal development and well-being. Whether they need a listening ear, help navigating challenges, or just a space to feel safe, we are here to support them.

However, the long-term success of this project relies on the involvement of local businesses and community members. By working together, we can create a meaningful and lasting impact, steering young people away from negative influences and towards opportunities that empower them to succeed. We invite local businesses and organisations to support this initiative and help us provide the best possible future for young people in our community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the launch and showed their support. Your involvement makes all the difference.

If you would like to learn more about our mentoring program or explore ways to support the hub, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can create a safer and brighter future for our young people.

For more information, please contact shirley@youthunity.org

 Artwork: Cize-one

Photos: The Havering Daily
Youth Unity

Romford Outreach

by Community DevelopmentLondon Borough of HaveringNew ProjectsOutreach

At Youth Unity, we’re proud to be working on a new project funded by the Community Recovery Fund (CRF). This initiative is all about creating safer spaces, preventing issues before they happen, and building stronger relationships between young people and their communities.

What’s Happening in Romford Town Centre?

Romford is a busy town with lots going on, but it’s also an area that faces challenges. Over the past few years, we’ve been running activities that have made a real difference to young people and local businesses.

What We’re Doing:

  • Continuing our Wednesday afternoon youth sessions until March 2025.
  • Chatting with young people and businesses to build relationships and make the area feel safer.
  • Running fun and positive activities to keep young people engaged and connected.

Why This Matters

We want young people in Romford to feel safe, supported, and inspired to achieve their goals. This project is about:

  • Giving them opportunities to learn and have fun.
  • Reducing anti-social behavior and violence.
  • Building stronger connections between young people, local businesses, and the wider community.

By working together, we can create spaces where young people feel they belong, where they can thrive, and where the community feels stronger than ever.

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Creating Safer Spaces: Supporting Young People in Hildene

by Community DevelopmentLondon Borough of HaveringNew ProjectsOutreach

Youth Unity is proud to be working in partnership with the Metropolitan Police on the Our Harold Hill: Clear Hold Build initiative.

Part of this project is to create safe spaces for young people in Harold Hill, offering them a place to come together, engage in positive activities, and build a sense of community.

By providing support, resources, and opportunities, this initiative aims to empower young people, reduce anti-social behaviour, and foster a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone. Together, we are committed to making Harold Hill a place where young people feel safe, valued, and inspired to thrive.

Read this full article regarding the The Clear Hold Build project.

Are you interested in being part of the Henry project? Booking form

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Padnall Hall Art Mural Project: A Community Vision Comes to Life

by BIG LOCALLondon Borough of Barking & DagenhamNew Projects

At Youth Unity, we’re passionate about creating opportunities for young people and their communities to express themselves through creativity. The Padnall Hall Art Mural Project is an inspiring example of how art can bring people together, share local stories, and enhance community spaces.

This project, centered around the hoarding of the new Padnall Hall Youth Centre, is being shaped entirely by community voices and will reflect the rich culture, history, and aspirations of the local area.

Why This Matters

The Padnall Hall Art Mural Project is more than just an artwork; it’s a celebration of the local community’s identity and values. It serves as a symbol of unity, bringing people together to create something lasting and meaningful.

As the new youth centre takes shape, this mural will build excitement for what’s to come: a space where young people can connect, grow, and thrive.

Our Process: Listening to the Community

To ensure the mural truly represents the community, the project was designed in three key phases:

Outreach & Street Interviews

Our outreach teams connected directly with local residents, gathering their thoughts and ideas through voice and video interviews.

A short documentary will highlight these community insights, showcasing the vision behind the project.

Workshops – “Your Community Voice”

Workshops were held in schools and local settings to gather feedback on themes, imagery, and ideas for the mural.

Surveys were distributed to encourage participation from all age groups, ensuring the mural reflects an intergenerational perspective.

Art Installation

Using the community’s input, the mural will be brought to life, transforming the site into a vibrant and inspiring focal point.

This project will also build bonds within the community and promote excitement for the new Padnall Hall Youth Centre.

What the Community Had to Say

Through 71 surveys and direct engagement, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Here’s what we discovered:

Why a Mural Matters:

83% of respondents said a mural is highly important for the local area.

88% believe it should represent the local community’s residents.

Themes People Want to See:

54%: The diverse cultural landscape of the area.

50%: Community life.

49%: Local culture and history.

Style and Feel:

65% wanted the artwork to be bright and vibrant, showcasing the dynamic energy of the youth centre and its young people.

83% advocated for incorporating positive and inspirational messages.

Community Ideas & Messages

During outreach, we gathered some truly meaningful suggestions for what the mural should include:

Symbols of unity, diversity, and communication to attract and inspire people.

Imagery of local history and buildings that reflect the area’s heritage.

Messages of kindness and hope, such as:

“You are important.”

“Believe in yourself – you can achieve great things.”

“Persevere – success is about rising every time you fall.”

These contributions reflect the community’s pride, resilience, and desire for a space that uplifts and inspires everyone.

Click here to find out more about the artist Cize_One

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Empowering Futures: Transformative Educational Programs at Limes Farm Primary School – PFCC

by Epping Forest District CouncilNew ProjectsPolice, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex (“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”

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Showcasing Our New Artwork at Romford Unity Hub

by London Borough of HaveringNew Projects

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!

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BEFFTA Award, Best Youth Organisation

by AwardsNew Projects

We are thrilled to announce that Youth Unity has won the prestigious award for Best Organisation at the BEFFTA Global Awards 2024! The event, held on 26th October as part of the UK’s Black History Month celebrations, was an incredible experience for our team. It was an honour to be recognised among such inspiring global leaders, and the evening was made even more special with our team attending in tuxedos, adding to the glamour of this star-studded event.

The BEFFTA (Black Entertainment Film Fashion Television and Arts) Awards, founded by Her Excellency Professor Pauline Long, celebrates outstanding achievements in the Black and ethnic minority communities. Being part of this prestigious event is a momentous occasion for Youth Unity, and we are immensely proud to have received this recognition for our work.

We would like to extend our gratitude to BEFFTA and everyone involved in making the evening unforgettable. It was a night filled with joy, pride, and a strong sense of community, and we look forward to continuing our mission of making a positive impact on the lives of young people.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to strive for excellence in all that we do!

We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible team at Youth Unity. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to supporting young people are the driving force behind our success. Winning the award for Best Organisation is a testament to their hard work and the positive impact they have on the community every day. We are so proud to have such an amazing team, and this recognition would not have been possible without each and every one of them.

Thank you for all that you do!

We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible team at Youth Unity. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to supporting young people are the driving force behind our success. Winning the award for Best Organisation is a testament to their hard work and the positive impact they have on the community every day. We are so proud to have such an amazing team, and this recognition would not have been possible without each and every one of them.

Thank you for all that you do!

Finally, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Kristy Prince for putting us forward for this nomination. Her unwavering support from the very start of Youth Unity has always been deeply appreciated, and we are truly thankful for her continued belief in our work.
Stop knife crime

Understanding the New Laws on Zombie Knives: What You Need to Know

by Knife CrimeNew Projects

Youth Unity uses informative leaflets, like the one shown, as a key part of our educational outreach both in schools and during detached youth work sessions. These materials are designed to raise awareness about critical issues such as the new laws banning zombie knives and machetes. By presenting clear, factual information, we aim to educate young people on the legal risks and personal dangers associated with carrying these weapons.

During our school visits, youth workers distribute the leaflets and engage students in discussions, helping them understand the broader implications of knife crime, while also promoting safer behavior and responsible decision-making. Similarly, during our detached work in the community, we use these leaflets to reach out to young people directly, offering support, resources, and guidance. By providing accessible information and helplines, we strive to empower youth to make informed, positive choices, contributing to a safer community for all.

This information is intended for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. It aims to provide information on safe knife disposal options and related resources. For legal matters or specific inquiries, please consult a qualified legal professional or the appropriate authorities.
Video produced by Paul McKenzie