Nottingham’s young people are set to benefit from an exciting new chapter in the city’s youth offer, after Nottingham City Council was selected for the next stage of the Government’s Young Futures Hubs and Transformation Programme.
The funding will support the development of a second Young Futures Hub in Nottingham, building on the strong foundations already created through the city’s first hub on Beaumont Street in Sneinton and the thriving youth centre at Bulwell Riverside.
Together, these spaces are helping to grow a more connected, welcoming and vibrant network of support for young people across the city.
Young Futures Hubs are designed for young people aged 10 to 17, and up to 25 for young people with SEND, offering safe, trusted places where they can feel listened to, supported and inspired.
At the heart of the model is a simple idea, young people should not have to navigate a complicated system to get the help, opportunities and encouragement they need. Each hub brings together trusted youth workers, positive activities, sport, creativity, mental health support, skills and training, employment pathways and crime prevention services in one place, making it easier for young people to build confidence, strengthen relationships and get support before challenges escalate.
The Government’s Young Futures Hubs and Transformation Programme aims to improve young people’s mental health and wellbeing, open up more opportunities and reduce vulnerability to crime. It also supports local areas to strengthen the way partners work together, so that schools, youth services, community organisations, health, skills and employment support can offer a more joined-up response around young people and their families.
Subject to formal acceptance by the Executive Board, the council will begin work with partners and communities to identify the right location for the second Young Futures Hub, ensuring it is shaped around local need and the voices of young people.
Councillor Linda Woodings, Executive Member for Children and Young People at Nottingham City Council, said: “This is fantastic news for Nottingham and, most importantly, for our young people.
“A second Young Futures Hub gives us the chance to build on the energy, learning and relationships already growing through our hub in Sneinton, and to create more places where young people feel welcome, safe and able to be themselves.
“We want every young person in Nottingham to know that there are people who believe in them, opportunities open to them and support available when they need it.”
Sarah Nardone, Corporate Director for Children and Education Services at Nottingham City Council, said: “Young people have been clear that they want places to go, things to do and trusted adults they can talk to.
“This investment helps us take another important step towards a stronger, more connected youth offer for Nottingham. By working alongside children, young people, families and partners, we can design support that reflects real lives, real communities and real aspirations, helping young people to feel confident, connected and ready to thrive.”