Four action-packed days of activities designed by young people, for young people will take place in Southend this summer as part of an exciting new initiative.
Southend Youth Voice, working closely with members of Southend City Youth Council and the Children in Care Council, have developed 'GET DAYS 2025': Get Outside, Get Active, Get Safe and Get Calm. Each day is carefully planned to address key issues and interests highlighted by young people themselves.
Funded by the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, these events are open to all young people aged 11-16 who live in or attend school in Southend-on-Sea, who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals.
The programme was developed in direct response to the top priorities identified by 9,978 young people through the Make Your Mark 2024 survey. It aims to offer the chance to try something new, promote healthy lifestyles and provide valuable skills to help young people stay safe and thrive in the city.
Jocelyn Ayao, member of youth parliament, said: "'Get Day Activities' is more than just a summer programme but a place for young people who deserve somewhere to belong, be inspired, and feel seen. The Youth Council created this because too many young people are stuck at home during the holidays with nowhere to go and nothing to do. Every session is a space to have fun, meet new people, and try something new, all for free. This is what youth-led change looks like: real action that puts young people first."
Spaces are limited, so to find out more about these events and to book your place visit the Southend's Youth Voice Team website