At Youth Action Unlocked, young people from across the North East came together to design projects that could make a tangible difference in their communities. In Gateshead, The Youth Shield came together with a shared mission: creating a safe, welcoming space for young people in the area.

The team developed a youth hub at the Gateshead Interchange. This space now provides positive activities, a safe environment, and a chance for young people to connect with others in their community.

Designing the hub helped the group develop a wide range of skills that will support them both now and in the future. Young people strengthened their communication and teamwork skills by sharing ideas, listening to others and working collaboratively. They developed confidence and leadership by voicing their opinions and shaping decisions while also gaining practical experience in budgeting, planning and working with stakeholders. The project helped them grow their problem-solving abilities and empowered them to take an active role in creating positive change in their community.

We interviewed some of the group members and Cole explained the reason behind the name: “Youth Shield because it’s like a youth club but it’s also a shield because it’s somewhere you can feel safe and protected.”

The project aimed to address a clear and urgent issue as Savannah told us that “all of it revolves around safety.” For the group, the idea was inspired by their own experiences: “the violence on the streets where we live.” Savannah also commented on the importance of inclusivity: “Kid’s sitting in the house alone will want a place to go instead of feeling left out.”

When asked why they wanted to get involved in Youth Action Unlocked, Cole shared, “It’s a good opportunity to say what you want.”

For The Youth Shield, participating in Youth Action Unlocked was more than just planning a project - it was about taking action, being heard, and creating a space where young people in Gateshead could feel safe, supported, and empowered.

*Gateshead Interchange Photo Credit: Chabe01 via Wikimedia Commons