OnSide Youth Zones

OnSide Youth Zones is a UK-based registered charity (Charity number 1125893) dedicated to improving the wellbeing, aspirations, and life chances of young people by creating a nationwide network of high-quality youth facilities called Youth Zones. These centres provide young people in disadvantaged areas with inspiring, safe spaces where they can spend their leisure time engaged in positive activities.

Mission and Vision

The charity is driven by the vision that every young person across the UK should be happy, healthy, and empowered to thrive. OnSide’s mission is to enable young people, particularly those in the most disadvantaged communities, to discover their passions and potential through access to exceptional youth work and state-of-the-art facilities. They emphasize opportunity, inclusion, and support in partnership with public bodies, private sector leaders, and local communities.

Activities and Operations

OnSide Youth Zones raises funds to build, launch, and sustain multimillion-pound Youth Zones, which are vibrant centres staffed by highly skilled youth workers committed to life-changing work with young people. The Youth Zones offer a broad range of activities designed to support positive mental health, creativity, wellbeing, and social development.

The organization also coordinates the OnSide Network, a collaboration of 15 independent local charities that operate these Youth Zones. This network shares expertise, delivers training, and fosters continuous improvement in youth work practices across the UK.

Funding and Impact

For the financial year ending 31 March 2024, OnSide reported a total income of approximately £9.9 million, primarily from charitable activities and donations, including government grants. The total expenditure was about £13 million, all invested directly in charitable activities to enhance and expand the Youth Zone network.

OnSide’s approach has been recognized for its impact on positive mental health and early intervention. Their wellbeing youth workers and arts programs provide crucial one-to-one support and creative engagement opportunities that assist young people in managing mental health challenges and building resilience.

Partnerships and Community Engagement

The charity operates through a unique model of partnership involving young people, local communities, local authorities, and private sector leaders. This collaborative approach ensures that Youth Zones meet local needs effectively and sustainably.

Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

OnSide is committed to diversity, inclusivity, and equality, striving to provide an environment where all young people feel welcome and supported regardless of their background.

Summary

OnSide Youth Zones is a national charity transforming the lives of young people across the UK by developing a network of dynamic, safe, and inspiring Youth Zones in disadvantaged areas. Through strategic partnerships and a focus on quality youth work, the charity fosters opportunities for young people to explore their potential and thrive.

Charity Number: 1125893

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/4040477 [2] https://www.onsideyouthzones.org [3] https://www.onsideyouthzones.org/who-we-are/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/4040477/contact-information [5] https://theprudencetrust.org/what-we-fund/our-impact/onside-youth-zones/