OUR APPROACH
We work in partnership with local authorities, place leaders, businesses and agencies to co-create projects that connect young people to place.
What We Do 🛠️
We are a hands-on, practical organisation that empowers young people to be the active agents of change in the places they live in. We work directly with young people and local communities to turn ideas into activity that brings energy, creativity and opportunity to public spaces.
In practice, this involves designing and running youth engagement programmes; curating events and creative takeovers; brokering partnerships with local stakeholders; and handling the nuts and bolts— everything from logistics to safeguarding and communications.
The goal is simple—instilling greater confidence, improved skills and enhanced pride for young people in the places they live in.
“It’s fantastic to see events running in our towns that have such a positive impact on young people, giving them a platform to show off their creative talents.”
Our 4-Stage Framework
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ENGAGE
We listen to young people and involve them directly in shaping ideas, ensuring projects reflect their ambitions and the needs of their community.
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DEVELOP
We build skills, confidence and networks through mentoring, workshops and opportunities for young people to collaborate with others.
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ACHIEVE
We create opportunities for young people to showcase their talents through markets, performances and pop-ups that generate real income and pride.
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SUSTAIN
We establish a lasting pipeline of youth engagement and events that continues to nurture talent and strengthen communities.
“We were delighted to be invited to take part in the Earlestown event and provide our pupils with the opportunity to perform in their hometown.”
How We Do It 🧩
At Place for Youth, we believe the best outcomes for young people happen when communities work together. That’s why we work with a wide range of local organisations to deliver impactful youth-focused placemaking activity.
Every place is unique, so the partners we collaborate with vary, but often include youth support services, local schools, colleges and sixth forms, charities, community groups, and performance groups.
By bringing these organisations together and providing the supportive infrastructure they need, we create a platform for local talent to thrive and showcase the creativity, skills, and energy that exists within the community.
National Recognition 🏛️
Our work is cited as best practice for revitalising high streets, with it referenced within the House of Lords’ High Streets: Life Beyond Retail report as a way to create inclusive and accessible spaces that nurture youth entrepreneurship.
Researchers from the Institute of Place Management also examined our work within their report High Street UK 2030 and found it breaks down barriers for young entrepreneurs, generates social value and confidence, and drives placemaking through music, craft and live performance.
Together, this recognition highlights the value of youth-led placemaking—showing how supporting young people can help create more vibrant and inclusive high streets.
“Creating a platform where young people can express themselves, develop skills and engage with their communities is truly commendable.”