Braintree Youth Initiative Awarded Vital Funding to Support Young People
Young people in Braintree are poised to receive enhanced support and opportunities following a significant grant awarded to The Third Space Youth (TTSY) CIC. The organisation has secured £10,346 from the Essex Violence and Vulnerability Unit's (VVU) Community Grant Programme, aimed at bolstering its Friday night youth club operations.
A Safe Haven for Youth Development
Operating from the Chapel Hill Youth Centre in Braintree, The Third Space Youth CIC runs a weekly youth club every Friday in collaboration with the Essex Youth Service. This initiative provides a secure and welcoming environment for local youngsters, offering a diverse range of activities including nutritious meals, sports, games, arts and crafts, and drama workshops. The club serves as a crucial space where young people can socialise, build friendships, and develop positive relationships, all under professional supervision.
Part of a Broader County-Wide Effort
The grant to Third Space Youth is one of 27 awards distributed across Essex, totalling an impressive £463,524. These funds are allocated to local, not-for-profit groups dedicated to reducing crime and fostering positive youth development through safe spaces and targeted programmes. Projects have been funded in every district and borough of the county, with this specific round supporting delivery from April 2026 to March 2027.
Official Endorsement and Community Impact
Roger Hirst MBE, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex and chair of the Violence and Vulnerability Partnership, emphasised the importance of such grassroots initiatives. He stated, "Local organisations at the heart of Essex communities understand the unique needs of the communities they work with; they understand what tools and resources young people need to stay safe. The community grant recognises this and allows local groups to deliver fantastic, tailored work delivering positive change and tangible results." Hirst added that this funding will significantly impact the lives of young beneficiaries and contribute to making Essex a safer place to live and grow up.
Voices from the Frontline
Hermione, a representative from The Third Space Youth, expressed gratitude for the VVU's support, saying, "TTSY and the young people are so grateful that the Violence and Vulnerability Unit has funded the Braintree Youth Club. Our mission is to work alongside young people and the wider community to deliver a youth work offer that is relevant, supportive, creative and co-produced in an environment that is fun, stimulating, and educational." She highlighted that participation has recently increased to 50 young people, and the funding will enable the expansion of services, creating a safe learning environment where youths can explore their surroundings and discuss their lived experiences.
Strategic Approach to Violence Prevention
The Essex Violence and Vulnerability Unit operates county-wide to prevent serious violence, employing a public health approach through local, evidence-based provisions. This grant programme underscores a commitment to addressing vulnerability and promoting community safety from the ground up, ensuring that interventions are both effective and sustainable.
