Cumbria Youth Alliance is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
The youth charity was set up in 1998 and has supported over 100,000 youngsters aged 11 to 25.
As recognition of how the alliance’s work has grown, the organisation has been invited by national funders and government departments to pilot innovative approaches to youth service delivery.
Now other counties are looking to adopt models that include:
- A smart tool for faster, joined-up support when a young person needs help.
- Two low-cost, high-impact programmes building young people’s leadership and job skills.
- The charity’s youth alliance model that brings people together to deliver better youth services.
While there is much to celebrate, the charity said the need had never been greater.
It said today’s young Cumbrians face a complex mix of pressures. These include mental health struggles, educational disruption, employment, the cost of living, poverty, consequences of COVID and limited rural transport that isolates many from essential services.
CEO Becky Wolstenholme said: “We work throughout Cumbria, supporting youth clubs, training volunteers, and co-ordinating services where no one else can.
“We also work on systemic change, strengthening Cumbria’s wider youth sector. Our model doesn’t just support young people – it grows the services they need.
“I am immensely privileged to lead this wonderful organisation with our dedicated and passionate staff.
“I also thank amazing partners and funders such as the National Lottery Community Fund, The Benny Walker Charitable Trust, Youth Futures Foundation, Cumbria unitary councils, Cumbria Community Foundation, BAE, and Sellafield, to name just a few.”
Mark Libby, chair of CYA, added: “CYA are changing the game for young people across Cumbria.
“The team nurtures wellbeing and resilience, unlocks potential, and empowers the next generation to live quality, fulfilling lives.
“It is truly remarkable to witness the wonderful outcomes they are driving. By harnessing data-driven solutions, CYA are catching those falling through the cracks, placing young people back on track into meaningful work and pathways where they can thrive.”
For its 25th anniversary, CYA is launching a strategy to boost youth empowerment, strengthen the sector, ensure financial stability and influence, and build deeper community partnerships.
Later this year the charity will open its new Benny Walker Centre in Workington, host a celebration event at the Palace of Westminster, release an anniversary impact report and launch a fundraising campaign.
CYA invites all those who care about young people’s future to join them in marking this important milestone. For further information, including how to get involved and donate to their anniversary fundraiser, www.cya.org.uk/cya25
