Unlocking Opportunities: Youth Clubs as Lifelines in the Cost of Living Crisis
Young people in Barking and Dagenham, like many across the country, have been grappling with the harsh reality of the cost of living crisis. The struggle to make ends meet has had a profound impact on their lives outside the classroom, prompting us to consider the question of what our community can do to provide hope and a brighter future for them.
The findings released by the national youth charity OnSide are a wake-up call. The fact that 31% of young people in London have been forced to stop their activities outside of school, including socialising with friends, engaging in sports and hobbies, speaks volumes about the magnitude of the challenge.
In the midst of these disheartening statistics, it is positve to find a beacon of hope in the form of Youth Clubs and safe spaces like our very own Future Youth Zone. These establishments have emerged as the much-needed escape routes from the cost of living lockdown that is gripping young people.
The power of Youth Clubs lies not only in their facilities but also in the supportive community they offer. It’s not just a place to hang out; it’s a sanctuary where young minds can dream, create, and build bonds that will last a lifetime. It is where their concerns and fears about the cost of living crisis can be transformed into ambitions and aspirations.
The OnSide report reveals that 77% of young people in London who attend Youth Centres say they’ve become more resilient, better equipped to face challenges, and, most importantly, have gained the priceless ability to spend more face-to-face time with their friends.
In Barking and Dagenham, Future Youth Zone stands as a testament to this powerful transformation. We’ve seen firsthand how young people can thrive, how they’re exploring new horizons, and how they’re using the safe haven we provide to face the cost of living crisis head-on.
The OnSide report may paint a grim picture of the struggles young people face due to the cost of living crisis, but we, as a community, have the opportunity to rewrite this narrative. By investing in Youth Clubs and safe spaces like Future Youth Zone, we offer a lifeline to young people, helping them unlock a world of possibilities even in the face of adversity. Together, we can give them the chance to break free from the cost of living lockdown and embrace a future filled with hope, resilience, and boundless potential.
