At Youth Unity, we believe that supporting young people means doing more than just providing activities — it means creating spaces where they feel safe, welcomed, listened to, and understood. That is exactly what our weekly Youth Sessions in Elm Park are designed to do.
Running every Friday from our mobile youth van on The Broadway, Elm Park, these sessions offer a relaxed and friendly environment where young people can drop in, socialise, and take part in positive activities including gaming, music, and informal group challenges — with hot drinks and conversation always on offer. But the real value of these sessions goes far beyond what is on board the van.
A Safe Space, Led by Trusted Adults
Our sessions are staffed by experienced youth workers and trusted adults who understand the challenges many young people face. This means young people are not only engaging in fun activities, but also have access to supportive adults who can listen, offer guidance, and signpost to further help when needed.
Conversations often naturally touch on topics that affect young people’s daily lives — from school pressures and friendships to wellbeing, safety, and future opportunities. Having trusted adults present in a non-judgemental setting allows young people to open up in ways they often cannot in more formal environments.
Listening to What Young People Actually Want and Need
A key part of our approach is listening. These sessions give us the opportunity to build real relationships and better understand what young people in the local area are experiencing, what they enjoy, and what support they feel is missing.
By spending consistent time in the community, we can shape future projects around what young people tell us they want — whether that is creative opportunities, sports, mentoring, or access to specialist support. This youth-led insight is essential to making sure services are relevant, effective, and genuinely helpful.
Building Community, Not Just Services
We also see these sessions as a way to strengthen connections across the wider community. Parents, carers, and local residents regularly stop by to talk with the team, ask questions, and learn more about the support available for young people.
We actively welcome community involvement and believe that positive relationships between young people and local residents are vital for building safer, stronger neighbourhoods. When young people are seen, supported, and included, it helps shift perceptions and encourages mutual respect and understanding.
Working in Partnership
These sessions are supported by the London Borough of Havering and form part of our wider commitment to early intervention and community-based youth work across the borough. By working in partnership with local authorities, schools, and other services, we are able to connect young people to the right support at the right time.
Looking Ahead
Our aim is not only to provide a safe place to spend time, but to use these sessions as a foundation for longer-term engagement, mentoring, and development opportunities. We want young people to feel that Youth Unity is somewhere they can turn to not just for activities, but for support, encouragement, and opportunities to grow.
We hope the local community will continue to get involved, say hello, and help us build a positive, supportive environment where young people feel valued and heard.
If you see the big black van on The Broadway on a Friday afternoon, come and say hello we would love to meet you.
