A popular youth project in Shotton Colliery, County Durham, will continue for another year thanks to new funding from believe housing.
The not-for-profit housing association has awarded Shotton Partnership 2000 a £9,565 community grant to support services and activities at the Youth Centre in Shotton Community Park. The centre offers young people aged 11 and over a safe, friendly place to spend time, try new activities and get support when they need it.
believe housing funded the initiative last year and agreed to support a second year after seeing the hugely positive impact it had on young people, boosting confidence, supporting wellbeing and strengthening community connections.
Over the past year, the Youth Centre has given young people opportunities they might not otherwise have had.
Working with Durham County Council’s Parks and Countryside team, they created a short film about the area’s railway history and hosted a community screening for neighbours of all ages.
They explored local wildlife on coastal walks, took part in litter picking to care for their neighbourhood, and joined sessions on issues they said matter most from cyberbullying to mental health.
The project also brings people together. Each month, young people cook a meal for older residents and host activities, creating intergenerational events that build understanding and friendship.
And in the run‑up to Christmas, the group prepared and delivered pamper bags for residents they felt could do with a lift.
Anne-Marie Parkin, Community Investment Coordinator at believe housing, said the project plays an important role in helping people feel well, supported and proud of where they live.
She said: “We’re delighted to support Shotton Partnership for a second year, building on the success of their first project and the positive impact it’s had on local young people and the wider community.
“These sessions don’t just tackle issues like antisocial behaviour; they create opportunities for skills development, volunteering and employability, while bringing generations together and strengthening community connections.
“We’re committed to supporting local groups who know what their communities need and who are already making a real difference. It’s fantastic to see the momentum from year one continuing into this next phase.”
In total, 63 young people took part in the first year, including 35 from believe housing homes.
Shotton Partnership has also secured further funding from several partners to continue its youth work and invest in new gaming and media equipment for young people.
Rona Hardy, Project and Finance Manager for the Partnership, said: “We would like to
say a huge thank you to believe housing for backing the Youth Centre for the second year running.
“Securing funding is becoming much more difficult, so the support from believe housing is very much appreciated.”
The Youth Centre is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings for young people aged 11 and over, offering a safe, friendly place to socialise or take part in activities.
It also provides home‑schooling support, a range of other youth activities and clubs, and a full summer holidays programme.
Other activities are available at Shotton Community Hub.
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