Volunteer Project Creates Opportunities for Young People in York

A volunteer organization has stated that a do-it-yourself (DIY) project has “opened doors” for young individuals facing challenges in York. This initiative, led by Volunteer It Yourself (VIY), engaged over 40 young people in the redecoration of the Door 84 community centre, located in The Groves. Through this project, participants who are not currently in education or employment acquired skills including joinery, plastering, tiling, painting, and decorating. The participants repainted the offices within the community centre and contributed to inspiring a mural that was commissioned as part of the refurbishment. Artist Kiana Morris designed the mural, which abstractly portrays York landmarks and symbolizes the city’s significance to the students. With financial backing from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the VIY projects have resulted in the renovation of three community spaces across York. The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that participants received mentorship from professionals and achieved entry-level City and Guilds accreditations, which can be utilized to pursue additional opportunities. Gemma Torr, who serves as VIY’s youth engagement lead for the North, identifies young individuals at risk of long-term unemployment or lack of training and integrates them into these projects. She stated: “Most of the young people who’ve done projects say they feel more empowered and capable afterwards – if they’ve been on a project they’re able to get an interview for another opportunity.” She added: “If they don’t think that particular skill is for them then we have other opportunities and we can find them alternatives.” Claire Foale, the council’s interim director of city development, commented that the projects also contributed to enhancing community facilities. Foale remarked: “Volunteers have helped to refurbish all sorts of facilities in York, that builds community engagement and a sense of pride.” She further noted: “York’s perceived as an affluent city with high levels of employment and education, but that masks deep-rooted deprivation in some areas.” The financial support for these projects has been prolonged until the conclusion of 2026, having initially been scheduled to cease next year.