Future Youth Zone was alive with energy as 195 young people came together to celebrate the council’s recent Youth Work Week 2025 event.
The event was designed to be inclusive and welcoming, with targeted outreach to SEND young people, those with care experience, and young people supported by the Youth Justice Service.
Behind the scenes, 11 young people aged 14 to 23 were employed as youth workers and paid the London Living Wage to lead planning, promotion, and delivery. They received training and mentoring, reinforcing the value of youth-led initiatives.
One youth worker said:
“Receiving payment for my role reinforced the idea that my contribution was meaningful and part of a professional environment.” The youth workers also produced a promotional video that was shared widely across schools and helped boost engagement.
Thanks to additional funding, the council was able to fully cover the annual membership fee for 120 young people, giving them access to Future Youth Zone until November 2026. This support is especially vital for those experiencing financial hardship, ensuring they can enjoy a safe and welcoming space with a whole range of facilities.
The event showcased what local community and youth organisations can offer, and gave attendees an opportunity to experience all the amazing facilities at Future Youth Zone
- sports and games
- boxing sessions with Box Up
- karaoke delivered by True Cadence
- gift wrapping led by Radiant Ambitions
- challenges and games with Lifeline
BDYD and West Ham promoted their opportunities, Barking and Dagenham Youth Dance members showed off their moves, NELFT led a men’s mental health quiz, mindfulness and chill-out activities, and the PAT Project challenged attendees to a tug of war. Progress Project performed their anti-bullying themed hit ‘Better Person’, while Ab Phab shared upcoming events and opportunities. Future Youth Zone also led activities on the climbing wall, and guests enjoyed plenty of hot food from a menu designed by Youth Workers.
Councillor Elizabeth Kangethe, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said:
“Youth Work Week is about giving young people the tools, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive. It was fantastic seeing so many young people engaging with each other, to youth organisations, and having fun.”
Click here to find out more about what Barking and Dagenham offers our youth!
The event was funded by the council’s Youth Offer Household Support Fund and Family Hubs service.
Thank you to all the providers who joined the council at the event:
Ab Phab, Future Youth Zone, BDYD, Box Up, CAMHS, C-Card, Lifeline, Nelft CWP, Nelft MHST, PAT Project Progress Project , LBBD Youth Service, Radiant Ambitions, Refuge, School Nurses, Subwize True Cadence, The Transformed You, West Ham United, Young Carers.