Gateshead-based charity, Youth Focus North East, has received a £5,000 donation from local recycler, EMR Burnopfield, to support its Young Spud Hub programme.
The funds will be used to help support 100 young people, between the ages of 8 and 11, to gain valuable work experience in a safe and nurturing environment and enhance both their personal and professional development.
Established in 1989, Youth Focus North East is an independent charity, with a vision to improve the lives of young people through high-quality youth work. The charity recognises that the younger generation faces a range of challenges that can leave them feeling lonely, isolated, anxious, and overwhelmed. At the Young Spud Hub programme, they aim to create a community where young people can connect with others, relax, and get the help they need from trained youth workers in a safe and supportive setting.
As part of the initiative, the charity will offer a range of support services, from informal chats to more structured advice and specialised services, as well as access to a variety of useful resources, to help young people with any issues they may be facing. In addition, there will also be a social space where they can socialise, play games, and participate in activities and workshops.
This partnership is part of EMR’s aim to support young people to build a bright future by offering resources that may not otherwise be available to them. Youth Focus North East’s support services are mainly delivered from two centres, located in Gateshead and Middlesbrough. The Gateshead site is located just seven miles from EMR’s Burnopfield recycling facility.
Josh Todd, General Manager at EMR Burnopfield, said: “Unfortunately, young people can face a number of life challenges at very early age, with limited access to support and resources, which is why Youth Focus North East is such an important charity.
“At EMR, we are dedicated to supporting the younger generation in the local area, and are proud to have worked with Youth Focus North East since 2022 on multiple projects, to help young people develop their professional and personal skills. Contributing to vital projects, like the Young Spud Hub programme, will allow the organisation to continue its fantastic work and provide a holistic approach, helping to shape young people’s lives across the region, so that they can thrive and succeed.”
David McCreedy, Director of Youth Programmes at Youth Focus North East, added: “We are thrilled at the continued partnership between EMR Burnopfield and Youth Focus North East. This funding will go a long to supporting our work with young people who are suffering with their mental health and other issues that are stopping them from excelling”
