OnSide builds state-of-the-art, multi-million-pound youth centres—called Youth Zones—in some of the most economically disadvantaged areas of the UK. Staffed by skilled and dedicated youth workers, OnSide empowers young people to lead positive and fulfilling lives. With 15 Youth Zones already in operation and seven more set to open by 2026, the charity is the largest provider of open-access youth work in the country.
In 2024, OnSide supported over 50,000 young people, nearly three-quarters of whom came from the most deprived areas of the UK. In addition to offering a wide range of sports and activities, the Youth Zones provide over 120,000 meals for £1 or less, helping to combat food poverty.
The Barratt Foundation’s generous grant will play a vital role in sustaining the life-changing support offered by Youth Zones, empowering thousands of young people to thrive.
OnSide’s services are more critical than ever, as the number of youth centres in England has more than halved since 2011.
The Need
In 2024, OnSide partnered with YouGov to conduct extensive research, capturing the voices of over 5,000 young people aged 11-18. The Generation Isolation report revealed that nearly half of young people spend their free time alone in their bedrooms, with screens dominating their time. When asked what would improve their lives outside of school, their message was clear—greater access to affordable leisure activities and safe, engaging spaces to socialise and develop new skills.
Jamie Masraff, Chief Executive of OnSide, said: “OnSide’s work is built on partnerships with forward-thinking organisations like the Barratt Foundation, who share our belief in unlocking young people’s potential and providing them with the opportunities, support, and encouragement they need to thrive. We are incredibly grateful to the Barratt Foundation for their generous support, which will have a transformative impact across our network of Youth Zones.
At a time when young people are facing unprecedented challenges with isolation, loneliness, and mental health, this partnership will help us bring vital youth work to even more communities – and make a lasting difference to young people across the country.”
Andy Button-Stephens, Head of the Barratt Foundation, said: “We recognise that being a young person today is more challenging than ever before, with the challenges of social isolation, youth unemployment, social media and often a lack of positive role models.
We are confident that this contribution will make a tangible difference to young people’s lives through the empowering youth work that OnSide delivers.”
To kick-off the partnership, colleagues from Barratt Redrow visited the charity’s Youth Zone in Warrington to learn how the grant is making a difference. They took part in a range of activities including cookery, a music workshop and football. Regional Managing Director, David Hesson, and Sales Director, Gavin Powell, even attempted the climbing wall.
To find out how to access OnSide’s Youth Zones or to support its work, visit the website at OnSide.
Pictured: children from Warrington Youth Zone making pizza with Holly Mugnaioni from the Barratt Foundation
