London

When developing our Leading with Hope strategy, we undertook extensive research and consultation to identify where long-term investment could have the greatest impact. London, and in particular the borough of Barking & Dagenham, stood out as a place with a large and diverse population of young people facing deep-rooted inequality, and, crucially, strong local organisations, networks and community leaders already working to support young people and create change.

We began to build a relationship with a deeply values-aligned local organisation; Barking & Dagenham Giving.  They helped us to learn that the borough has an active youth sector that sometimes feels fragmented, and would benefit from connection and resource.  They also shared stories of passionate local young people who would love to be able to take an active part in planning their and their community's futures. 

More recently, a group of local residents involved in shaping the future of the borough under BD Giving's Spaces+Places programme identified a creative youth hub as a priority for the borough.