Blackpool Youth Group Challenges Negative Perceptions of Town

Teenagers in Blackpool have stated their resolve to challenge negative perceptions of their town and enhance the lives of young people. The United Youth Alliance (UYA) in Blackpool has been granted funds to support teenagers in becoming more vocal within their community. BBC Children in Need has provided £200,000 to support a range of youth social action projects in both Blackpool and Ipswich. This initiative comes after a report, issued in July, revealed that girls growing up in the Lancashire seaside resort confront some of the most severe challenges in the UK. Evie, a member of the UYA, stated: “We want to build Blackpool up to be a better place and to make it a safer place and to help young people, especially young women.” The UYA, whose community efforts were acknowledged with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service earlier this year, operates training schemes and offers development opportunities within Blackpool. Ella, another member of the group, commented: “Youth social action is so crucial and important, especially in coastal towns or deprived areas.” She further explained that community groups assist in keeping children “away from drugs and gangs,” noting that the northwest of England has been significantly affected by the County Lines drug trade. Tilly, a third UYA member, stated that Blackpool “has gone from being a place where no young woman would want to be” to a town in which “young women have places to go and people who support [them].” The teenager encouraged others to share her positive perspective. She remarked: “It is a wonderful place to live,” adding, “I think we need to stop focusing on the darker parts of Blackpool and bring light to some of the more beautiful, beautiful things like this group. It is my joy.” Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.