Again this year, we’ve had the privilege of taking youth work out of the buildings and right into the heart of Burton’s communities. The project is all about removing barriers, because not every young person can get to a club, but meeting in the park opens up new opportunities to connect with young people right in their own community spaces.
The Youth Club in the Park is a collaboration between Burton Youth for Christ, Riverside Church, Burton Albion Community Trust, and Trent & Dove Housing. By working together, we’re able to bring something bigger than we could alone, and that spirit of partnership is what makes these events so special.
This summer we ran four sessions across Stapenhill and Anglesey, building on the momentum of an earlier event at Carver Road park in Horninglow during the Easter holidays. We also supported Trent and Dove at their Kingfisher Fun Day. Together, these events created safe, fun, and inclusive spaces where young people and families could connect, belong, and enjoy time together.
Over the summer alone, we engaged with 231 children. The variety of activities made the parks buzz with energy, from graffiti art and inflatable football to giant garden games. One of the new things we were able to bring this year was our gaming stations, which gave young people the chance to enjoy FC25, Minecraft, and Rocket League together in the park.
“I’d like to do gaming in the park more often – I can game and play at the same time.”
Young Person
Another highlight was the creation of a community graffiti wall. Young people, families, and volunteers all contributed to a colourful piece of art that is now proudly installed at The Warehouse. The words across the wall read “honor alit artes,” which translates from Latin as “honour nourishes the arts.” This shared artwork became a symbol of creativity and togetherness, reminding us of the power of community when everyone adds their mark.
For many, this was their first encounter with youth work. For parents, it was a relief and delight to see safe, engaging activities brought right to their doorstep. These moments remind us why it’s so important to meet young people where they are, especially those who might never step into a traditional club.
This park work was made possible thanks to funding from the FA Community Shield (through Burton Albion Community Trust) and Trent and Dove Community Grants, which supported the graffiti project and the purchase of the gaming stations.
Looking ahead, the story doesn’t end here. The gaming stations will continue to be part of our year-round youth work in clubs, mentoring, and community events. We’ve learned a lot again this year, and we’re excited to keep pushing the boundaries of what youth work can look like when it steps outside the walls and into the community.
Matt Rimmer
Lead Youth Worker
