Why Thurrock needs a Youth Zone
To provide young people across Thurrock with the opportunities and support they deserve, OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway relies on the backing of the local community. Whether through fundraising, volunteering, sponsorship, or charitable giving, every contribution helps create a safe and inspiring place where young people can grow, build confidence, and discover their potential.
OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway will deliver life-changing youth work in a purpose-built facility open seven days a week, giving young people access to trusted support, positive activities, and opportunities that can shape brighter futures.
How you can help
In order to offer young people the opportunities and guidance they truly deserve, we need support from those who want to make a difference. In the years ahead, the Youth Zone is something that everyone can get involved with as volunteers, fundraisers, staff, mentors and more.
Right now, during our construction phase, we’re looking to connect with local businesses and local leaders to help establish the Youth Zone and ensure it’s somewhere we can all be proud of for years to come.
The vital work we do wouldn’t be possible without our corporate partners and supporters – our incredible Founder Patrons. Through their extraordinary generosity, they will give Thurrock’s young people opportunities that will transform their paths into adulthood.
If you would like to get involved, email david.mellis@onsideyouthzones.org
Facing the facts
Young people today are facing increasing pressures, from the impact of the cost-of-living crisis to concerns around wellbeing, confidence, and social isolation. If unaddressed, these challenges could have a direct impact on their future, preventing them from discovering their passions and purpose, and reaching their full potential.
- GCSE attainment is below the national average, indicating poorer literacy outcomes
- Nearly 1 in 6 children in Thurrock live in low-income families
- 40% of children in Thurrock are overweight or obese in Year 6
The cost-of-living crisis has exacerbated many of these challenges. We know that having safe, affordable, and high-quality spaces to meet outside of school helps young people feel less isolated, gain confidence, and improve their health and sense of belonging. We know that if we don’t address these factors, there is a negative impact on a young person’s life trajectory. That’s where OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway comes in.
Our Youth Zone will be a positive force that will work tirelessly to counter the barriers Thurrock’s young people face. Its mix of state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated youth workers and engaging activities will offer new possibilities and ambition to our community’s young people.
