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About The Gap

Every young person deserves a chance to succeed.
We are committed to empowering young people to achieve their dreams.

The Gap was established in 2008 to support teenagers and young people in Sutton Coldfield. At the time was there was no provision for young people after school or college.

 

Today the Gap are involved in a range of projects for young people in the local community including providing a safe space after school or college and promoting good mental health and wellbeing to help with challenging lives.

We step into "the gap" between school and home., known as the third space. The third space theory defines essential, casual gathering places separate from home (first space) and school or work (second space), that foster social connection and community, such as cafes, libraries, or parks. These neutral, spaces enhance well-being and a positive outlook on life by promoting interaction among diverse groups. 

Every child and young person is cherished and deserves a chance to succeed. Every connection counts.

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Outcomes and Impact

Over the years, we have seen significant positive outcomes by fostering trusted relationships that enhance young people's self-confidence, emotional resilience and social skills. Through these projects, we aim to achieve outcomes that align with the National Youth Agency National Occupational Standards for Youth Work.

 

Social Connection - (YW01, YW07, YW09, YW19)

Reducing isolation for up to 20 teenagers per day at The Venue by creating opportunities for young people to build positive relationships, participate in group activities and develop a sense of belonging. Through relationship-based practice and inclusive group work, young people are encouraged to actively participate and develop positive peer connections.

 

Mental Health and Well-being - (YW05, YW15, YW18)

Enhanced self-esteem, self-confidence, emotional regulation and resilience, particularly for at-risk or marginalised young people. Through mentoring and supportive relationships, young people are encouraged to reflect on their experiences, make informed choices about their wellbeing and develop strategies that promote positive mental health. Research shows that mentoring can reduce depressive symptoms and feelings of loneliness.

 

Social and Emotional Skills - (YW05, YW06, YW11, YW18)

Development of communication skills, empathy, trust and improved relationships with peers, family and teachers. Through planned activities and reflective practice, young people are supported to explore values, beliefs and emotions, enabling them to recognise their personal growth and apply their learning in everyday life.

 

Education and Employment - (YW05, YW13, YW15)

Improved school attendance, academic performance and progression into higher or further education. Young people are supported to access information, develop career aspirations and improve employability skills, confidence and readiness for the workforce. By increasing self-awareness and informed decision-making, young people are better prepared for future opportunities.

 

Personal Development - (YW05, YW09, YW14, YW23)

Helping young people grow into responsible, confident, self-reliant and positive citizens regardless of their background or circumstances. Young people are empowered to recognise their rights, contribute to decision-making processes and actively shape the opportunities available to them, promoting autonomy and active citizenship.

 

Behavioural Change - (YW15, YW16, YW18)

Reductions in substance misuse, risky behaviours, crime and youth violence through relationship-based support, education and safeguarding practices. Young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills to assess risks, make informed choices and seek support when needed. Mentoring has been shown to reduce violent crime by 21% and re-offending by 19% (Youth Endowment Fund research).

 

Impact - (YW20, YW24, YW25)

The wider, long-term impact of these projects is improved life opportunities for young people. These include:

  • Improved school attendance and educational engagement.

  • Reduced involvement in risky behaviours, crime and anti-social behaviour.

  • Increased independence, self-confidence and emotional resilience.

  • Improved employability and readiness for adulthood.

  • Better mental health and wellbeing, particularly for at-risk or marginalised young people.

  • Increased social connectedness and stronger support networks.

 

These outcomes contribute to the organisation's wider objectives of promoting positive youth development, reducing inequalities and empowering young people to reach their full potential. Through ongoing evaluation and reflective practice, the projects will continue to adapt and respond to the needs of young people and the wider community, ensuring sustainable and meaningful impact.

The Gap runs the following projects:

The Venue - 12-18 year olds

An informal drop-in centre and a safe space for 12-18 year olds after school or college in the heart of Sutton Coldfield. Open 15:30 - 17:30 Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, excluding bank holidays.

The Venue has air hockey, basketball hoop, card games, darts board, pool table, sofas, a recording studio, table tennis, Xbox, and a free hot chocolate.

HeadSpace - 10-18 year olds 

Working in schools and colleges delivering KS2, KS3 and KS4 assemblies, workshops including Y6 transition to Y7 in secondary schools, and one to one mentoring since 2015.

OutThere 

Detached street youth work out and about to connect and engage with young people on the streets of Sutton Coldfield Town centre and the surrounding areas.

Studio 

A recording studio for music, Gap Chat podcasts and song writing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Friends Playing Video Games
Mentor and teenager
People Walking
Vocal Recording

Where is The Venue?

Teenager

What do the young people think?

"The Gap were there for me when I had no one and they are still here supporting me and motivating me.  I have come along way and a huge part of that is down to every bit of support the Gap have provided.

I felt valued and that I was being listened to for the first time in

my life."

GapChat Podcast Logo

On the GapChat podcasts we discuss a range of issues for young people and enjoy listening to each other's opinions.

To listen to more episodes please subscribe to our YouTube channel. Listen to our podcasts on the Studio page below.

Volunteers

Fancy becoming a volunteer for us?

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