Young people step up to volunteer through new OnSide partnership

Young people at three OnSide Youth Zones are taking part in The Big Help Out through a partnership developed with Shaping the Future with Volunteering, supported by Royal Voluntary Service and made possible through funding from This Day Foundation. The partnership highlights the important role they play in building stronger, more connected communities

The year-long project, running at Carlisle Youth Zone, Base71 in Barnsley and Horizon Youth Zone in Grimsby, is creating more opportunities for young people to volunteer, build skills and contribute locally, recognising that volunteering today can take many forms, from leading activities to shaping inclusive spaces for others.

To mark the launch during The Big Help Out weekend, young volunteers supported a range of local activities, including hosting events, welcoming guests and helping to deliver family and community celebrations. Their enthusiasm and initiative demonstrated the real and immediate contribution they are making.

At Horizon Youth Zone, young leaders involved in groups such as Beyond Skippers and Beyond Next-Gen are helping to shape the future of the Youth Zone itself – ensuring young people’s voices, ideas and ambitions are heard. From welcoming new members to leading activities and creating a space where everyone feels they belong, they are giving back every single week.

Over the next year, more than 120 participants will benefit from meaningful volunteering opportunities across the three Youth Zones, working alongside local partners and community organisations. They will gain confidence, develop leadership skills and build valuable experience, supporting their future pathways while making a difference in their communities.