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We increase social cohesion and build a sense of belonging through our universal offer.

We develop leadership skills and support young people to feel empowered and be more active in their community. We promote positive behaviours to create safe communities.


Made me feel less isolated, more in the community.

Wigan Youth Zone, Male, Aged 10


Evidence

  • 90% of stakeholders said we strengthened local communities by supporting young people
  • 94% of stakeholders said Youth Zones raised pride in the local area
  • 97% of stakeholders thought that their area was better since their Youth Zone opened
  • 66% of parents of 2 year plus members believe that their child’s membership made a positive difference to the community
  • 96% of stakeholders said that their Youth Zone had made an impact on supporting them achieve their objectives
  • 97% of stakeholders said that the Youth Zone worked effectively with them in their role

It has really supported us within the community in tackling hate crime.

Stakeholder, Manchester, Education

Safer Communities

  • 66% of members say they are more likely to stay out of trouble
  • Local stakeholders credit the Youth Zones with reducing crime and anti-social behaviour for example:
    • Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service credited the Youth Zones as having made a significant contribution to the significant fall in deliberate secondary fires started
    • In Oldham police reported a 30% reduction in ASB involving young people and a 40% decline in young people being victims of street crime
    • In Wigan police reported a 77% reduction in ASB in nearby Mesnes Park post Youth Zone opening
    • Chorley – 49% reduction in nuisance & criminal behaviour by young people since opening

Cohesion

  • 65% say they are better at mixing with people who are different from them
  • 97% of stakeholders said that it made a positive contribution to community cohesion

Citizenship

  • 65% of members felt more a part of their community as a result of attending their Youth Zone
  • 65% felt that they could make a positive difference to their community
  • 97% of stakeholders said it was good or very good at encouraging people to volunteer/ take part in social activity

Alex’s story: “I noticed the smiles when I came through the door”

Alex joined Mahdlo, Oldham Youth Zone when he was 12 years old. A longstanding and active member of Mahdlo, and an OnSide Network Ambassador – Alex shares his story of eight years at the Youth Zone.

Read the case study

Our Goals

Goal 1

Give young people exciting, safe places to connect and grow.

See the outcomes

Goal 2

Help young people to lead healthier, happier lives.

See the outcomes

Goal 3

Enable young people to better face the challenges of life.

See the outcomes

Goal 4

Support young people to raise their aspirations and fulfil their potential.

See the outcomes

Impact of OnSide

OnSide exists to transform young people's lives across the UK through a powerful network of state-of-the art Youth Zones that offer life changing opportunities and vital relationships with youth workers that support young people to build and achieve their aspirations.

Learn more

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