Nov-Dec 2023 Newsletter

NOV & DEC 2023

BI-MONTHLY NEWS Highlights from Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone

WHATS INSIDE? Our Young People Pages 3 & 4 Our Patrons Pages 5,, 6 & 7 Our Partners Pages 8 & 9 Our People Page 10 Our Place Pages 11

2023 look back

63,000+ Active members accessing our free youth club services in both our Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone

5,367

1,318 Members with a Disability or Special Educational Needs. Representing 11% of our membership.

500 Average hours of service per week across both our sites in BwD

Individual visits across both our Blackburn & Darwen centres.

New members 2022/23 across both sites

434 Young people supported into education, employment or training.

89

1,612 Free Holiday Club places provided at both our sites in BwD

Informal education sessions focusing on substance misuse, sexual health, bullying, relationships and democracy

800+ 9101.5

Total volunteer hours including student placements, Young Leaders and corporate volunteer hours

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Our Young People

RemEMbrance Day On Saturday, 11th November, we spent the day reflecting on history and honouring heroes.

Our young people painted their faces and made stick poppies tributing this day.

Anti-Bullying Week November marked an impactful week at the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone as we actively participated in Anti-Bullying Week.

This dedicated week was not just about raising awareness but about encouraging respect and positivity among our young people, focusing on nurturing healthy relationships and encouraging positive interactions through discussions, activities and workshops.

Mahdlo Football Game Our Junior players have been dedicated to polishing their football skills. Recently, they participated in a friendly match at the MADHLO Youth Zone in Oldham against their Junior team, securing a 7-3 win.

What stood out was their excellent teamwork and sportsmanship, showing how well they collaborated together. Huge congratulations to everyone who took part!

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Road safety Week During Road Safety Week, our SEND group (In partnership with IMO Charity) crafted traffic lights and sparked road safety discussions.

In addition to their artistic endeavours, our young individuals also engaged in an informative video session focused on staying safe on the road.

Money Management Project Did you know our Youth Hub is a FREE goto service for CV polishing, job opportunities, and hands-on work experience for young people in BwD? During sessions, our young people have been diving into a money-management project, mastering the art of budgeting, and even venturing into launching their own businesses!

If you are under 25 and would like support with your CV or employment, call us on 01254 292000 or email laura.billington@blackburnyz.org. The journey starts here... #YouthEmpowerment #YouthHub #Entrepreneurship

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Our Patrons

The Annual Patrons Dinner Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Unites Business Leaders in Celebration of Community Impact at The Annual Patrons Dinner.

Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, a charity dedicated to empowering local young people, recently hosted a prestigious event that brought together business leaders from the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Patron network to express gratitude for their support in investing in the next generation of young people. This exclusive gathering took place at the Mytton Fold Hotel and welcomed over 130 people who have been instrumental in advancing the Youth Zone’s mission.

The event left a profound impact on the business community, underscoring the importance of their support in creating opportunities and pathways for young people, regardless of their background.

Together, the business leaders and the Youth Zone can work hand in hand to uplift the community and ensure a brighter future for the younger generation.

Andrew Graham MBE concluded the event, extending heartfelt thanks to the businesses for their invaluable support.

This Annual Dinner would not be possible without the sponsors – Signature Tax Group, Blackburn College, East Lancs Chamber of Commerce and ACG Renewables.

Christmas Carols The recent Christmas Carols with David Gorton was a fantastic gathering! On Thursday 21st December, businesses and supporters came together at Blackburn Youth Zone for a festive sing-along, embracing the holiday spirit with traditional carols and Christmas tunes, all accompanied by a festive lunch featuring mince pies!

Hannah Allen, CEO of Blackburn and Darwen Youth Zone, also shared insights into the remarkable achievements of 2023.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the event.

Stay tuned for more community celebrations in the upcoming year!

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New patron’s on board Darwen Terracotta

Darwen Terracotta joins the Patron Network, a distinguished name in the architectural terracotta and faience industry, has officially joined hands with the Youth Zone to bolster its dedication to social responsibility and community development.

Steve Allen and Jon Wilson, Directors of Darwen Terracotta, expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership:

Click to read more!

“We are delighted to become patrons of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone. At Darwen Terracotta, we understand the vital role that community organisations play in shaping the future. By supporting the Youth Zone, we aim to contribute to the development of young talents, empowering them to reach their full potential.

Perspex Perspex International, a leading provider of highquality acrylic products, is delighted to announce its new partnership as a Bronze Patron of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, strengthening its commitment to supporting local communities and the development of young people in the borough.

This significant partnership reflects Perspex International’s dedication to giving back to the community in which it operates. The decision to become a Bronze Patron is part of their ongoing efforts to contribute to the well-being and future prospects of young people in Blackburn and Darwen.

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Rosslee Rosslee Construction, a distinguished construction and development firm based in Accrington, proudly announces its role as a Bronze Patron of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Gary Clarkson, the Managing Director of Rosslee Construction, said:

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“Rosslee Construction is proud to join the Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone network as a Bronze Patron. We believe in actively contributing to the communities where we operate. By supporting the Youth Zone, we aim to play a role in the positive development and well-being of the youth in Blackburn and Darwen, empowering them to achieve their full potential.”

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Christmas Campaign Volunteering Our Christmas Present wrapping initiative was an enormous success thanks to the incredible support we received from both dedicated volunteers and generous donors. Over the course of two weeks, 94 volunteers from various backgrounds and companies dedicated 224 hours to help wrap presents, ensuring that our members wouldn't miss out on the joy of Christmas.

Special thanks go out to our volunteers

Donations Our Christmas campaign was further enriched by the overwhelming generosity of our patrons, local companies, and individuals who contributed a variety of essential items. From Christmas presents and mince pies to bedding, toilet rolls, and a significant donation of makeup essentials from Collection Cosmetics, we were overwhelmed by your support.

The kindness displayed played a pivotal role in spreading Christmas cheer to our members and the local community. We are immensely grateful to everyone involved in making our Christmas campaign a huge success. Together, we helped create a brighter and more festive season for those in need this Christmas

£43,631 Raised through BigGive Christmas Challenge

thank you

To everyone who donated to BigGive 2023

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Our Partners

The official launch of the Young BwD Foundation during Youth Work Week

The official launch of the Young BwD Foundation showcasing how youth organisations come together to support young people, took place during Youth Work Week.

The foundation brought together over 140 members and young people in a collective mission to empower and promote services that support children and young people in Blackburn with Darwen.

The event was held at Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone as part of Youth Work Week celebrations. Youth Work Week is an annual celebration and is hosted by the National Youth Agency. As well as a wide range of activities including music, art and sport, there was also a chance to hear about the new Young People’s Foundation development.

To see images from the event visit: Young BwD Event – Google Photos ’Young BwD’ is a new infrastructure organisation formed by the members of the Strategic Youth Alliance – and supported by the National Young Peoples Foundation Charity.

It’s a vibrant cross-sector partnership that highlights the incredible work being done in many ‘places and spaces.’

Executive Board Member for Children’s Services Cllr Julie Gunn who spoke at the event, said: ‘’It was my absolute pleasure to be at the launch of the new Young BwD which also coincided with national youth work week and the great work we do in all of our spaces & places. It was clear to see the strong partnership in youth providers across the borough that were represented during the evening.

I really love being part of a young person led event and it’s always brilliant to see them involved. Thank you also to our partners for showcasing the fantastic youth work that is provided in BwD to give children and young people so many opportunities.’’

Click to read more!

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Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and Darwen Library joins forces Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and Darwen Library have teamed up to support local young people.

At a recent Family Fun Day, the library shared stories and gave away books, sparking a love for reading.

Now, they're getting ready for an exhibition from February 24th to April 5th. It'll show off the amazing art created by young people at the Youth Zone. This isn't just a show— it's a chance for everyone to celebrate creativity and community.

Make sure you keep an eye out on our socials for more!

Men's Mental Health WORKSHOP with Blackburn Rovers Community Trust On November 19th, our Junior Club welcomed Blackburn Rovers Community Trust for an impactful Men's Mental Health workshop. Their discussions ranged from defining mental health to sharing future aspirations and support networks.

This collaboration emphasised the importance of open conversations and community support in nurturing mental well-being.

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Our People

Jack straw steps down Rt Hon Jack Straw will be stepping down as Chair of the organisation, with the position to be taken up by local businessman, regeneration leader and Trustee for Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, Wayne Wild.

Serving as Honorary President since its inception, Mr Straw became Chair of Blackburn Youth Zone on retiring from the House in 2015, having served as MP for Blackburn since 1979. Between 1997 and 2010, Mr Straw also served as Home Secretary, Foreign Secretary, Leader of the House of Commons, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice.

The Right Honourable Jack Straw will be stepping down as Chair of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, but will continue his involvement as a Trustee, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for his outstanding commitment to Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone.

Looking forward, Mr Graham MBE expressed his confidence in the incoming Chair, saying: “We are excited to welcome Wayne Wild to his new role. Wayne brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our mission. We believe under Wayne’s leadership, Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone will continue to thrive and make a positive impact on the lives of young people in our community.”

Jack Straw said: “It’s been such a privilege to chair the Youth Zone for the past eight and a half years. It’s a brilliant organisation now serving 1,200 youngsters (and more) each week. This is the right time for me to step down from the Chair (though I shall remain a Trustee) – and I can think of no one better than Wayne Wild to lead from now on. He’s an extraordinary dynamo, with immense energy who’s already transformed youth services in Darwen. He will have my unwavering support’.

Click to read more!

New starter Barrington Reeves: Barrington has recently joined the Business Development Team at Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone as the Grants & Trust Lead, overseeing the coordination of all grants and trusts funding activities.

With a background in chemistry and materials science, followed by over 15 years of experience as a freelance bid writer for various charities, Barrington brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Barrington is a proud parent of four children has worked within several organisations within the voluntary sector and has his own charity. Welcome to the team!

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Our Place

Youth Zone Darwen celebrates the grand opening of its new premises and unites the community during a Christmas Family Fun Day

The grand opening of Youth Zone Darwen was attended by 200 people from the community. The new location of the Youth Zone is the former Britannia Building Society building on Railway Road, called Over Darwen House. This move marks an exciting new chapter for the charity, as it aims to offer improved facilities and increased accessibility to better serve the community.

The grand opening celebration kicked off with a spectacular Family Fun Day, uniting the community and fostering a sense of togetherness. The event promises a day filled with joy, laughter, and exciting activities for individuals of all ages.

The relocation to Over Darwen House comes as a response to the growing demand for Youth Zone’s services, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to the well-being and development of young people in the community. The former Britannia Building Society building has been transformed into a welcoming space that will be operational seven days a week, providing sessions on weeknights, weekends, and school holidays.

The improved facilities will boast a brand-new well-being zone, creative workshop space, recording and DJ studio, gaming zone, and multi-games spaces. It’s also far more accessible for Youth Zone’s young users too.

The parent of a Junior Club member said: “Tom loves coming to Youth Zone Darwen; it is a safe place for him to socialise with his friends and engage in music. The new venue is fantastic, and he will be coming here on a regular basis for his free hot meal’ The move to Over Darwen House aligns with Youth Zone Darwen’s mission to provide a safe and inclusive environment where young people can learn, grow, and connect with their peers. The organisation believes that the new location will not only meet the community’s current needs but also pave the way for future initiatives and partnerships.

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