Gillingham Marina From Above

Supporting Medway Council to Engage Young People in Gillingham​

by Medway Council

Supporting Medway Council to Engage Young People in Gillingham

Youth Unity CIC is partnering with Medway Council’s Youth Services Team to deliver a bold new mobile outreach programme designed to reach young people where they are on the streets, in parks, and in the heart of their communities.

From December 2025 to March 2026, our mobile outreach van will roll into key areas of Gillingham, transforming public spaces into hubs of creativity, connection, and support.

Led by trauma-informed youth workers, each session provides young people with a safe space to talk, take part, and try something new from gaming to music production and creative workshops.

This work focuses on:

  • Reaching and supporting vulnerable young people early, before issues escalate.

  • Reducing anti-social behaviour through meaningful engagement and trust-building.

  • Offering creative alternatives that build skills, confidence, and belonging.

  • Strengthening connections between young people, local services, and their wider community.

By bringing opportunity directly to Gillingham’s streets, we’re helping young people find their voice, channel their energy, and see their potential.

Our partnership with Medway Council is about more than outreach it’s about changing the story for young people, one conversation at a time.

Panoramic view of the London skyline with Canary Wharf district and the runway of the City Airport in front during sunset time

City Airport

by London City AirportNew Projects

Empowering NEET Youth in Greenwich & Bexley:
A New Digital Training and Mentoring Initiative

Youth Unity CIC is proud to announce a new project aimed at empowering young people across Greenwich and Bexley, supported by the London City Airport Community Fund. The initiative focuses on helping NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) young people unlock their potential through online skills training and one-to-one guidance.

Tackling Local Challenges Head-On

Both Greenwich and Bexley face significant socio-economic challenges, from youth unemployment and educational inequality to the impacts of serious youth violence and anti-social behaviour. Many young people in these boroughs lack access to positive opportunities and pathways into meaningful employment.

At Youth Unity, we believe every young person deserves the chance to thrive. Our new project seeks to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity by offering digital access to accredited training courses, supported by personalised mentoring designed to help participants find direction and build confidence.

Our Vision: Reducing Risk, Raising Aspirations

The project’s key goals include:

  • Reducing vulnerability Engaging NEET youth in structured training to divert them from crime and anti-social behaviour.

  • Creating pathways into employment Offering courses aligned with local job markets and connecting participants with local employers.

  • Enhancing community safety Empowered, confident young people contribute to safer and more resilient communities.

Through targeted online learning and one-to-one mentorship, participants will gain not only practical job skills but also access to mental health resources, financial literacy training, and personal development tools.

Collaboration and Community

Youth Unity’s strength lies in its partnerships. We work closely with local schools, youth offending teams, community safety partnerships, housing associations, and social care services to reach young people most in need. This collaboration ensures that the right support reaches the right individuals, making lasting change possible.

We’re also inviting those who complete the program to stay involved as Youth Unity Ambassadors, supporting peers, shaping future projects, and giving back to their communities. These ambassadors will gain experience in youth work, develop leadership skills, and help co-design upcoming initiatives.

Measuring Impact

Success will be tracked through participant feedback, skills assessments, and employment outcomes from training completions to real-world job placements and apprenticeships. By combining data with personal stories, we aim to demonstrate tangible improvements in employability, confidence, and community engagement.

Celebrating Local Support

This project wouldn’t be possible without the support of the London City Airport Community Fund. Together, we’re investing in the future of East London’s youth building hope, skills, and safer neighbourhoods.

We’ll be sharing updates, stories, and outcomes from the project as it progresses, including interviews with participants and partners.

Railway track with switch and interchange and high rise building in Hong Kong city

Future Tracks: Supporting Vulnerable Youth Through Mentorship on the Move

by South Eastern Railway

At Youth Unity, we believe every young person deserves guidance, safety, and a clear path toward a brighter future. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Future Tracks a targeted, trauma-informed mentoring program supporting vulnerable young people across South East London and Dartford, particularly those connected to the railway network.

We meet young people where they are, emotionally and physically, and help guide them toward safer paths and brighter futures.

Why the Railway?

The railway is more than a transport route, it’s a real-world touchpoint for vulnerable youth. It can also be a space where risk, escape, and opportunity collide.

By working with:

  • Southeastern Railway Safeguarding

  • British Transport Police

  • Local authorities & schools

…we’re able to intervene early, build trust, and open doors.

Future Tracks is a trauma-informed mentoring program supporting vulnerable young people aged 11 to 25. The project is embedded within the Southeastern railway network to support those at risk of:

  • Going missing

  • Anti-social behaviour

  • Exploitation

  • Substance misuse

  • Being NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training)

What Future Tracks Offers​

Safety Awareness

“Teaching young people to stay safe while traveling.”

 Life Skills

“From communication to money management, helping them grow in confidence.”

Emotional Support

“Providing a trusted adult and safe space for each mentee.”

Our Approach: Trauma-Informed & Contextual Safeguarding

We don’t just offer help, we understand the bigger picture. Our mentors are trained in:

  • Trauma-informed listening

  • Contextual safeguarding principles

  • Cultural awareness and anti-oppressive practice

Six important life skills

Let's Keep the Tracks Moving Forward At Future Tracks, we believe in early intervention, empowerment, and real change. Together, let’s help every young person find their way.

Arrows on wooden cubes pointing from a sad expression towards a happy one. Personal growth and aspiration concept.

Ambition Life Skills Program

by Mentoring

Empowering Young People: The Ambition Life Skills & RespectProgramme

Youth Unity is proud to introduceThe Ambition Life Skills & RespectProgramme, a powerful mentoring initiative designed to support young people and young adults in developing essential life skills, improving well-being, and guiding them toward a brighter future.

By combining expert guidance, practical tools, and digital resources, the Ambition and Respect programmes provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can flourish. Launching May 2025, this transformative initiative aims to equip participants with the skills and confidence to lead fulfilling, positive lives.

 

Created by highly respected psychologist Roberto Forzoni, the Ambition Programme is grounded in evidence-based practice and uses solution-focused therapy to inspire young people to achieve their potential.

The programme includes 10 coach-led digital modules, designed to empower vulnerable young people by enhancing their mental health, resilience, and life skills. To support different learning styles, participants can access a paper mentoring handbook and a learning management system that tracks progress and outcomes.

Key Learning Themes

The Ambition modules focus on equipping young people with the skills to:

Develop confidence and self-esteem, becoming the best version of themselves

Understand and overcome self sabotage and negative thinking

Recognise the impact of their choices understanding consequences and building better decision-making skills

Manage impulses, learning to weigh short-term gains against long-term benefits

Build resilience, learning how to respond positively to setbacks and challenges

By engaging in these modules, young people gain the tools to avoid risk-taking behaviour, criminal activity, and unhealthy relationships, helping them to build a safer, more positive future.

Complementing Ambition, the Respect Programme features four coach-led modules focused on fostering respect in all aspects of life:

Understanding respect:

  • What respect means and how to develop it Self-respect Building a positive relationship with oneself Relationship respect
  • Encouraging healthy interactions with others World respect
  • Cultivating respect for people and communities each respect module includes a period for reflective practice, encouraging participants to consolidate their learning and apply insights in real-world situations.
Views of the beachfront at Clacton on Sea in Essex in the United Kingdom

Supporting Tendring’s Young People

by Active EssexECVYSEssex CountyMentoringNew 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!

Crime Scene at Night: Crime Scene Investigation Team Working on

Marks Gate in Barking & Dagenham, Levelling Up Program

by London Borough of Barking & DagenhamMentoring

Exciting New Partnership: Youth Unity and London Borough of Barking & Dagenham Bringing Youth Engagement to Marks Gate!

We are thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration between Youth Unity and the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham, aimed at engaging and empowering young people in the Marks Gate community! Over the next month, our dedicated Youth Unity team will be out and about, delivering detached youth work sessions. These sessions, including interactive street interviews, are designed to connect with local youth, listen to their voices, and build awareness of the exciting new youth centre coming to the area.

 

Close-up of a road arrow pointing forward, leading towards a glowing sunset through a tree-lined path in golden light.. Beautiful simple AI generated image

Peabody Referral Service

by MentoringNew ProjectsPeabody Housing
Referral Link

Referral Process and Location
Youth Unity services are offered exclusively through referral, ensuring that we reach those most in need of support.  Where referred young people can engage in hands-on, personalised sessions with their mentor. Together, they will develop a clear plan to re-enter education, secure training, or find meaningful employment.

Cost-Free Service with Commitment
This service is provided at no cost to referred individuals. However, it is essential that participants commit to attending their booked appointments, as each mentor dedicates their time and resources to providing meaningful support.

Partnerships to Drive Success
Through our partnership with Peabody Housing Trust, we collaborate with trusted organisations to offer valuable apprenticeship and training opportunities. Additionally, we aim to work closely with local businesses to create pathways for young people, offering them real-world work experience and employment prospects. By fostering strong relationships with local employers, we ensure that young people not only gain the skills and qualifications they need but also have direct access to potential job opportunities. By combining hands-on experience with tailored mentoring, our service equips young people with the tools, networks, and support required to achieve long-term success.

Booking and Availability
Appointments are managed through a strict booking system to ensure everyone receives the dedicated support they need. The first step is to send a referral form using the link below.

Let’s work together to help young people unlock their potential and achieve their goals!

Collaboration to Drive Success
Through our collaboration with Peabody, we collaborate with trusted organisations to offer valuable apprenticeship and training opportunities. Additionally, we aim to work closely with local businesses to create pathways for young people, offering them real-world work experience and employment prospects. By fostering strong relationships with local employers, we ensure that young people not only gain the skills and qualifications they need but also have direct access to potential job opportunities. By combining hands-on experience with tailored mentoring, our service equips young people with the tools, networks, and support required to achieve long-term success.
 

Specialised Support Through Referral
Our referral-based service is tailored to young people who need extra support, whether they have special educational needs, are in care, or have recently left care. Referred individuals will receive dedicated mentoring, helping them explore educational, training, and employment opportunities. Each young person is matched with a qualified mentor who understands their unique challenges and is committed to empowering them to succeed.

Our Services Include:

  • Personalised career advice and one-on-one mentoring
  • Skills development to prepare for the job market
  • Expert help with CV writing, job searching, and interview preparation
  • Guidance on improving online professional profiles (LinkedIn and social media)
  • Connections to work experience opportunities, job matching, and apprenticeship programs
  • Access to accredited in-house training to boost qualifications
  • Partnerships with trusted organisations for additional training and employment resources
  • Regular sessions with Youth Workers on relevant topics, delivered through both group and one-on-one formats
  • Information on additional resources, such as Care Leaver Hubs
A striking red ladder set against a vibrant blue background, symbolizing challenges and the journey towards achieving goals, representing ambition and perseverance in a visually compelling manner

Supporting Vulnerable Young People in Tendring

by Active EssexEssex CountyMentoringNew ProjectsTendring

Our 1:1 Mentoring with Tendring District Council and Active Essex

At Youth Unity, we are proud to be working in partnership with Tendring District Council and Active Essex to provide vital 1:1 mentoring for vulnerable young people in our community. Our program, aimed at supporting those aged 9 and above, is designed to empower these young individuals, helping them navigate challenges and build brighter futures.

Why Mentoring Matters

For many young people, having a trusted mentor can make all the difference. Our 1:1 mentoring program offers personalised support, guidance, and encouragement to young people who may be facing difficulties such as family instability, social isolation, or the risk of exploitation. By working closely with Tendring District Council and Active Essex, we ensure that these young individuals receive the targeted help they need to overcome barriers and thrive.

A Holistic Approach to Mentoring

Our mentoring approach is holistic, focusing on the entire well-being of each young person. We work closely with them to help realise their full potential, addressing not only immediate challenges but also the underlying factors that may be affecting their progress. Whether it’s offering emotional support, life skills training, or help re-engaging with education, we aim to empower them to take control of their future.

Many of the young people we work with have faced setbacks that disrupt their education and personal development. Through our mentoring, we offer tailored guidance to help them return to education, set achievable goals, and rebuild their confidence. Our mentors act as consistent role models, ensuring that every young person feels supported, valued, and capable of success.

Partnership with Tendring District Council and Active Essex

Our collaboration with Tendring District Council and Active Essex allows us to extend our reach and impact, providing more opportunities for young people to access our services. By working together, we are able to identify those most in need of support and offer them a safe and supportive environment where they can grow and flourish.

Making a Lasting Impact

At Youth Unity, we believe in the potential of every young person. Our 1:1 mentoring program is about more than just providing short-term solutions; it’s about making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable youth, giving them the tools to succeed, the confidence to pursue their dreams, and the support to re-enter education or training when needed.

We are proud to play a role in shaping a brighter future for these young people, and we look forward to continuing this vital work in partnership with Tendring District Council and Active Essex.

Get Involved

If you’d like to learn more about our 1:1 mentoring program or how you can support our work with vulnerable young people, please get in touch with us. Together, we can make a real difference in our community.

Referral Link