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For the past decade, Melanie from Percy Hedley has been inspiring young people through her work with The Key. As a long-standing KEY+ Facilitator, she’s supported countless youth-led projects - from community toy drives to confidence-building residentials - helping young people unlock their potential, build vital life skills, and make a lasting impact in their communities. In this spotlight, Melanie shares her favourite moments, the transformations she’s witnessed, and why being part of The Key is such a rewarding experience.

What happens when three determined young people turn a simple idea into real change? The Funky Phoenixes started with a small recycling project in their school - and turned it into a borough-wide eco-friendly competition, inspiring multiple schools to take action for the planet.

Read their story to discover how they overcame challenges, built resilience, and learned new skills along the way. 

Friends Together, a group of young people from Sunderland’s SEND 16+ sessions at The Box, completed all three stages of the KEY+ Challenge. Along the way, they built skills in teamwork, confidence and communication while creating inclusive community events – from BBQs and discos to launching their very own silent discos.

For the past 6 years, Jamie has supported young people through the KEY+ Challenge, helping them grow in confidence, build life skills, and make a positive impact in their communities. From award-winning groups to inspiring personal journeys, Jamie’s work shows the true power of youth-led opportunities.

Looking to stay connected, grow your skills, and keep making a difference after completing the KEY+ Challenge? This blog shares why joining The Key Collective is the perfect next step. You'll be the first to hear about new opportunities, events, and ways to get involved - keeping your journey with The Key going long after your project ends.

As part of KEY+ Transitions, The Gamer Kings planned their own trip to the Metro Centre, building confidence, independence, and teamwork along the way. From budgeting and navigating busy spaces to trying new activities, the group left proud of their achievements and the friendships they strengthened.

Discover how The Key made a difference in 2024–2025! We empowered 1,635 young people through the KEY+ Challenge to build their skills, confidence, and resilience. Our latest impact report highlights the milestones, insights, and stories that shaped an inspiring year of growth and learning.

We’re delighted to welcome Natalie Marshall to The Key’s Board of Trustees. With extensive financial and strategic expertise, Natalie is passionate about using her skills to support young people across the North East and help drive our mission forward.

As part of their KEY+ journey, this inspiring group of college students took action to support two local toddler groups in need of safer, more engaging play spaces. They collected and cleaned donated toys, used KEY+ funding to buy new play mats, and developed confidence, teamwork, and leadership along the way.

Join us for the Great North Run 2026! After an amazing 2025, where runners raised over £3,300 to support young people across the North East, we’re gearing up for an even bigger year. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-timer, take on this iconic half marathon while making a real difference. Spaces are limited - register your interest today and be part of the action!

We said a fond farewell to Tom Thomas at our AGM, marking 22 years of his incredible dedication to The Key and his lasting impact on young people.

For their Stage 2 project, Pose 28 challenged themselves to step into an entirely new role: performers and playwrights.

None of the girls had previously shown an interest in writing or acting, but that changed when they decided to create a production that would shine a light on the real issues faced by young people today. Their idea was both imaginative and powerful – a live performance exploring healthy and unhealthy behaviours in relationships, written and acted entirely by the group.