Skate School and Street Art Bringing the Community Together

A case study from Minehead Eye Youth Services on how they used their Commissioner’s Crime Prevention Fund Grant.

In the heart of the Seaward Way estate, we used our grant to launch a project that offered free and discounted activities to young people, fostering a sense of belonging and positivity.

The funding enabled us to develop a community project that helped bring the housing estate ‘to life’. The area struggled for a while as a number of young people became weary of each other and certain areas.

The project enabled us to provide a positive, fun, exciting and engaging diversity of activities which enabled young people to positively interact with each other, and to feel safe and proud of where they live.

Skate School and Street Art Workshops: A Hit with Locals!

Every week, young people attended our Skate School sessions, either free of charge or at a minimal cost. These sessions became a highlight for many, providing a fun and engaging way to learn new skills and make new friends. Additionally, our monthly street art workshops, held either on the Seaward Way estate or at the Minehead Eye Centre, unleashed the creative potential of our participants, turning blank walls into vibrant canvases.

We also took our mobile skate ramp out on tour to different locations, showcasing the resources of Minehead Eye and promoting inclusivity and fun.

Diverse Activities for All Interests

Beyond skating and art, our project encompassed a wide range of activities, from cricket and football to music and curling. A dedicated youth worker led these sessions, supported by staff from Livewest, Magna Community Housing, or a local PCSO. We held sessions in the evening every week, with additional sessions offered during school holidays.

Our programme was shaped by feedback from local residents and the young people involved. This collaborative approach ensured that the activities remained relevant and created a sense of ownership and pride within the community.

Building Connections and Reducing Antisocial Behaviour

One of the project’s most significant achievements was increasing a sense of unity and safety among participants. The involvement of housing associations, police, and instructors showcased a collective commitment to the area. This collaboration helped reduce low-level antisocial behaviour and improved communication between residents.

The project provided young people with constructive activities and new opportunities, steering them away from trouble and towards positive community involvement.

Among the many success stories was a 12-year-old boy, previously a school refuser, who whilst initially resistant ended up becoming one of our volunteers!

Looking Ahead

The project exceeded our expectations, creating new connections and fostering a spirit of togetherness and the work continues beyond the Crime Prevention Grant.

Through this initiative, we’ve shown that with the right support and opportunities, young people can thrive, and communities can come together to create a brighter, more hopeful future.

How to apply for the fund

Groups and organisations need to apply by Friday 28 June, 2024 and can apply by going onto the Somerset Community Foundation website.