POSTED: 23/09/2022
Great Places have been working in collaboration with Youth Elements, a Manchester-based organisation set up in response to rising youth unemployment to tackle the isolation and dependency this caused among many of those affected. Their work helps young people make the most of their potential to achieve success and happiness.
Through consultations and focus groups with local young people, a lack of social interaction with their peers was identified. This began the planning of an Action Van to further Youth Elements services across the local area to reach as many people as possible. The Action Van will allow for life learning to take place, make new friends develop social skills, build professional relationships with youth workers, and explore opportunities to try new things.
Following Youth Element’s work to acquire a van, Great Places began conversations to identify how support could be provided. One of Great Places’ contractors, Sure Maintenance was identified to support with the interior of the van. A joiner volunteered their time to evaluate the space in the van and lay out the options that were available to create a space that is inviting to the community that can store resources and ensure service delivery. Following the consultation, Sure Maintenance donated £7,600 to cover the costs of the interior of the van.
Following this support, Youth Elements delivered a successful launch event at Old Moat Park, Manchester. The event was a wonderful example of how the van can attract and engage local young people to get involved with community initiatives.
Peter Crean, Community Partnership Manager said – ‘Youth provision is always needed but since the pandemic, it’s become a real focus. It’s brilliant that Youth Elements have been supported through Social Value to kit out their van and expand their offer. We will be working with them going forward to ensure they reach our neighbourhoods and directly benefit our customers.’
As a result of Great Places’ partnership with Youth Elements, we are hoping to see an increase in Youth outreach work within our communities.
For more information on the services of Youth Elements visit https://www.youthelements.org.uk/
