As we work towards opening the doors of our new Youth Zone supporting the young people of Thurrock, we are incredibly grateful for the support of Thames Freeport, whose commitment to investing in young people is helping turn our vision into reality. Their backing reflects a shared belief that every young person deserves access to opportunities, encouragement and the support they need to thrive.
Our purpose-built youth centre will be a place where young people can discover their talents, build confidence, develop skills and find pathways into meaningful futures.
Investing in Young People is Investing in the Future
Thames Freeport serves as a dynamic economic hub.
At the heart of its mission is a commitment to creating opportunities and supporting the communities that make the region strong. By supporting the development of OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway, Thames Freeport is helping ensure that local young people can benefit directly from the area’s growth and prosperity.
Proven Impact: The Future Youth Zone Story
The power of Youth Zones is already being demonstrated across the Thames Freeport area through Future Youth Zone in Barking and Dagenham.
Since opening in 2019, Future Youth Zone has supported more than 4,000 young people every year, providing access to activities, support networks and opportunities that help young people reach their potential.
The impact speaks for itself:
- 81% of young people said they feel better about their mental wellbeing
- 74% said they feel more self-confident
- 70% said they feel more resilient
These outcomes reflect what happens when young people are given access to high-quality youth provision, trusted adults and a place where they feel welcomed, valued and supported.
As part of the OnSide Network, we know that these results are not unique. Across the country, Youth Zones provide proven, long-term social infrastructure that strengthens communities and supports sustainable economic growth.
A Lasting Legacy for Thurrock
OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway will bring these same transformative opportunities to thousands of young people across Thurrock and the surrounding area.
The Youth Zone will be an independent charity, with a board made up of representatives from the private sector, the local authority, OnSide and community organisations. It will be part of the growing OnSide Network of 18 Youth Zones nationwide, supporting more than 50,000 young people annually.
Youth Zones are open year-round to young people aged between eight and 18 (up to 25 for those with additional needs), for just £5 annual membership and 50p a visit. Young people who sign up will have access to an indoor climbing wall, two-court sports hall, training kitchen, music room with a recording studio, fully equipped gym and a boxing and performing arts space, 3G kick pitch, arts and crafts room, sensory room, and an enterprise and employability suite.
The benefits will extend far beyond the young people who walk through our doors.
The Youth Zone will create permanent full-time and part-time jobs, generate volunteering opportunities and provide a hub where local businesses, civic organisations and community groups can come together to support the next generation.
Importantly, it will also help young people develop the skills and aspirations needed to access future employment opportunities. Through employability programmes, skills development activities and engagement with local employers, young people will be better equipped to succeed in the workforce of tomorrow.
“The Youth Zone can help make a difference in the area to help get kids in this generation off their phones, off the street and start socialising with others.”
- A member of OnSide Youth Zone’s Thames Gateway’s Young People’s Development Group
Together with Thames Freeport, our partners and our community, we are creating more than a building. We are creating a place where young people can belong, believe in themselves and build brighter futures.
And we cannot wait to welcome them through the doors.
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