For many young people, having a safe place to belong, make friends and try new experiences can make a significant difference to their health and wellbeing. In rural communities, opportunities for young people to connect outside school can be limited, and some can struggle with confidence, social isolation, or finding activities that reflect their interests.
That was the challenge being addressed by Youth@The Lounge, a project delivered by Alvechurch Communities Together, which provides regular youth sessions and holiday activities for more than 100 local children and young people. The organisation received a Community Wellbeing Grant from Worcestershire County Council Public Health to strengthen and expand the health and wellbeing activities already taking place through the group.
Rather than deciding what activities to offer themselves, the team started by asking young people what they wanted. Their responses shaped the project, ensuring that the activities and resources purchased reflected the interests, ideas and aspirations of the young people attending.
The funding enabled Youth@The Lounge to invest in a wide range of new resources and activities, including cooking equipment, sports equipment, creative materials, sensory resources, games and a karaoke machine.
One of the most popular additions was the karaoke machine, which inspired the creation of **”Youth Has Talent”**, a talent competition that encouraged young people to step outside their comfort zones and showcase their abilities. Young people performed during weekly sessions before finalists took to the stage at a community event, supported by family and friends.
The grant also funded a variety of activities designed to bring young people together and build confidence, creativity and social connections. Young people took part in cooking sessions, making everything from pizzas and pancakes to flapjacks and sweet treats. They explored new foods during a Chinese New Year celebration and enjoyed creative activities such as jewellery making, kindness projects, card making, dream catchers and paint marbling. The project also supported a dedicated nurture group, providing activities and resources for young people who find larger environments challenging.
The impact on health and wellbeing has been clear. By giving young people opportunities to participate in activities they helped design, the project has:
- Increased confidence and self-esteem through performances, creative projects and new experiences.
- Strengthened friendships and reduced social isolation by creating welcoming opportunities to connect.
- Encouraged positive mental wellbeing through supportive group activities and creative expression.
- Promoted healthy lifestyles through active play, outdoor activities and cooking sessions.
- Helped young people develop resilience by trying new things and celebrating personal achievements.
- Created a stronger sense of belonging within the local community.
The project has also reached beyond weekly sessions. Youth@The Lounge recently attended a community event, the summer wellbeing fayre at Alvechurch Middle School, giving local young people and families the opportunity to learn more about the support available and take part in wellbeing activities. Plans are already underway for a further event later in the year.
Importantly, the benefits of the grant will continue long after the funding period ends. Much of the equipment purchased, from sports resources and games to creative materials and the karaoke machine, will remain available for future groups to use. The organisation is also investing in staff and volunteer training focused on wellbeing, mindfulness and safe physical activity, helping to build long-term capacity within the charity and ensuring that high-quality support continues to be available for local young people.
By listening to young people, investing in their ideas and creating opportunities for them to connect, learn and have fun, Youth@The Lounge is helping to build healthier, happier and more resilient communities for the future.
Community Wellbeing Grants provide support projects that improve the health and wellbeing of Worcestershire residents. Funding can help community groups, charities and voluntary organisations deliver activities that reduce isolation, improve mental wellbeing, increase physical activity and strengthen community connections. If you have an idea that could make a positive difference in your community, find out more about eligibility criteria and how to apply: Community Wellbeing Grants | Worcestershire County Council