Our Impact 🌟
A decade of experience working with partners to transform places with the creative talents of young people.
A STRONG TRACK RECORD
Since 2012, our efforts have helped thousands of young people turn their ideas into action, while breathing new life into town centres.
In Carlisle, our Teenage Market events have become a focal point for creativity, boosting local pride and belonging for young people. In Margate, young makers have generated over £5,000 in sales at a single event. And in Salisbury, one young person was inspired to open a high street shop, transforming her dream into reality.
Our work builds confidence, skills, and opportunities — for individuals and for the communities they call home.
“
Without the support provided, I don't think I would have a shop today. It gave me the belief that I could make it happen.
– Kellie, Salisbury
Young people engaged in activity across the UK
Earned directly by young people through our events
Young people reported increased confidence after taking part
Towns and cities transformed through youth-led activity
Over the years, our work has been featured across a wide range of national, regional and local media outlets. We were, however, particularly proud of when The One Show came to cover The Teenage Market event in Bootle, as part of a story on alternative career options on GCSE results day.
Presenter Kev Duala visited the event at the venue Salt & Tar where he spoke to a range of young stallholders, as well as researcher and high street expert Dr Lucy Montague and our Executive Director, Joe Barratt, about why initiatives like The Teenage Market are so important.
IN THE MEDIA SPOTLIGHT
In addition to breathing new life back into high streets and town centres, our approach has proven to support young people’s mental health.
By creating low-pressure, welcoming spaces, we help young people feel seen, safe and part of something—so confidence grows, skills develop and natural support networks emerge.
For example, in Sunderland, young people co-designed activity that put wellbeing at the centre: with on-site counsellor drop-ins available at events. This created a safe pathway to build confidence, independence and a stronger sense of belonging for young creatives like Georgie.
MAKING A REAL DIFFERENCE
“
The Teenage Market has been like a safety net for me - a supportive space where I can showcase my work and build my confidence.
– Georgie, Sunderland