Young people took over one of the city’s Family Hubs for a day, for a range of services designed to bring people together as a community.
The Family Hub and Community Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV) Youth Takeover event was held at the Moat Family Hub, and saw a total of 450 people attend, including 266 young people aged between eight and 18, parents, carers and representatives from local businesses, organisations and partners.
The event enabled many teams to
- Engage with young participants in meaningful conversations and create an environment where their voices are valued.
- Give young people a safe space to express themselves during half term and access activities which are constructive.
- Link young people and youth services together to promote activities they can be regularly involved in to further develop.
- Highlight all the great work that’s happening in Coventry for young people.
The day also included workshops and over 30 activities, including music, multisports, virtual reality, arts and crafts, food and much more.
The main aims were to increase awareness of the services available at the Family Hubs, to bring young people together and share information on a range of other services and organisations in the city that offer support.
Cllr Patricia Seaman, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “The Youth Takeover event gave our young people the chance to voice their opinions, share their experiences and to see just what is there for them in our city.
“It was a great day, with many able to try some new experiences and to meet new people, whether that was building friendships with other young people, or talking to organisations like the Council and Police and having their voices heard.
“It was a part of our work through Child Friendly Cov to deliver on our pledge to ensure young people be and feel loved, valued, safe, healthy and have opportunities.
“Thanks to everyone involved for making it such a success and giving our children and young people such a memorable day.”
The range of interactive workshops covered topics such as mental health awareness, coping strategies, and skill-building activities, and young people also took part in a knife crime awareness chat with an expert from Precious Lives.
Comments included:
“Today was amazing, it's fantastic to see so many young people and youth services in one space with smiles on their faces. Today has been great for us to share our opportunities to the young people.” Youth Service.
“Thank you so much for today, all of my kids loved it. They can't stop speaking about how much fun they have had and when the next one will be. Thank you to you and all your team for providing such a fun and engaging experience.” A parent.
Other “Youth takeover” events are now being planned across the city – watch out for details coming soon.
Learn more about Family Hub Offer.