Our Youth Programme
Our free youth programme supports young people to express themselves, build safe and trusting relationships and increase their confidence through activities, games, and discussion. We give young people the space to relax and make use of the resources in our Youth Hub including console games, board games, a pool table, a retro arcade machine, a fully equipped music studio and a range of arts and crafts supplies.
Our experienced youth team adopt a friendly, fun and empathetic approach, offering guidance, information and resources to participants on various topics relevant to young people, including but not limited to healthy friendships and relationships, education and work, sexual health and drug & alcohol safety.
We are a youth-led service and we tailor our support to the young people who attend, to help them feel informed and empowered when navigating the many challenges and opportunities of the modern world. Our youth work practioners are always on hand for a one-to-one chat and can provide C-cards and signpost to other services when required.
For more about C-Cards, read here: https://www.northumbria.nhs.
If you or your young person would like to find out more about our sessions or arrange to see the space and speak to one of our Youth Work Practitioners before attending please email [email protected] or phone 01670 857167.
Signing Up
All of our sessions require sign up prior to attendance, to ensure we can cater for the number who wish to attend and have the right ratio of staff and volunteers to young people. Below is the link for registration which only needs to be completed at initial sign-up.
Please note: Once you have completed the sign up form, you won’t hear from us and you can just attend the next session!
QUEST NIGHT
MONDAY | 4-8PM | 13-18 YEARS | ASHINGTON
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Step into a world of imagination, teamwork, and storytelling through the ever-popular game of Dungeons & Dragons. Guided by experienced Youth Practioners, young people collaborate to create characters, embark on adventures, and solve challenges in a shared fantasy setting. This experience encourages creativity and self-expression, giving participants the freedom to shape their own stories and make meaningful decisions within the game. It also builds confidence as players develop their voices, contribute ideas, and take on different roles. Beyond the storytelling, the game naturally promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. Players must work together to overcome obstacles, negotiate outcomes, and think strategically—all while having fun in a relaxed and supportive environment. Whether new to the game or already experienced, participants will find a welcoming space to connect with others, develop social skills, and enjoy a unique, engaging activity that blends creativity with collaboration. |
Y-MUSIC
TUESDAY | 4-8PM | 13-18 YEARS | ASHINGTON
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Dive into a creative space designed for making, exploring, and enjoying music. With access to a fully equipped studio and dedicated vocal booth, participants can experiment with sound, develop their musical ideas, and express themselves freely—whether that’s through singing, producing, or playing instruments. This session offers the chance to build practical skills in music creation, from learning basic techniques to gaining confidence using studio equipment. Supported by knowledgeable Youth Practioners, young people can try new things, refine their talents, and discover their own unique style. Music also provides a powerful outlet for self-expression and wellbeing. Through collaboration and shared creativity, participants can connect with others, boost confidence, and experience the positive impact of making music together in an encouraging, inclusive environment. Whether bringing along their own instrument or trying something new, everyone is welcome to get involved, learn new skills, and enjoy the process of creating music. |
YOUTH CAFE
WEDNESDAY | 4-7PM | 10-13 YEARS | ASHINGTON
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A hands-on session focused on building confidence and independence in the kitchen, giving young people the opportunity to learn how to prepare simple, balanced meals from scratch. With guidance from supportive staff, participants develop essential cooking skills such as food preparation, safe kitchen practices, and an understanding of nutrition and healthy eating. This is a welcoming and relaxed space where young people can socialise, unwind, and enjoy time with friends in a safe and supportive environment with games and informal activities. Through practical experience, young people gain the knowledge to make informed food choices and create meals that are both nutritious and enjoyable. The session encourages creativity, allowing participants to experiment with ingredients, try new recipes, and take pride in what they produce. While working alongside others, participants also naturally build teamwork and communication skills, sharing ideas and supporting one another throughout the cooking process. This creates a positive, inclusive environment where young people can develop valuable life skills that extend beyond the kitchen. |
Y-CREATIVE
THURSDAY | 4-8PM | 13-18 YEARS | ASHINGTON
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A calm, creative space designed for young people to relax, unwind, and express themselves through a variety of artistic activities. From arts and crafts to colouring and open-ended creative projects, the focus is on encouraging imagination and providing a peaceful environment to switch off from everyday pressures. Participants are given the freedom to explore different materials and techniques at their own pace, whether that’s drawing, painting, crafting, or simply enjoying the process of creating something unique. There is no pressure for perfection, just an emphasis on enjoyment, self-expression, and trying new ideas. This session also supports emotional wellbeing, offering a positive outlet for stress and a chance to slow down in a supportive setting. Along the way, young people can build confidence in their creativity, develop patience and focus, and take pride in what they produce. |
EBCC YOUTH CLUB
FRIDAY | 4-6PM | 8-13 YEARS | EAST BEDLINGTON COMMUNITY CENTRE
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A welcoming and energetic youth space offering a wide range of activities designed to keep young people engaged and supported in a safe environment. With access to games, creative activities, and group-based challenges, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Young people are encouraged to try new things, take part in different activities, and spend time with friends while being supported by friendly, experienced staff. The session is flexible and youth-led, allowing participants to choose how they want to spend their time and what they want to get involved in. Alongside the activities, the session helps build confidence, social skills, and independence. It provides a positive space where young people can relax, have fun, and feel part of a supportive community. |
Support for Young People
We offer one-to-one support for young people, providing a safe, non-judgemental space to talk about any challenges they may be facing. Our experienced team listens, offers guidance, and helps young people access the right support by signposting and connecting them with relevant local services and specialist organisations when needed.
We’d love to hear from you if you have any stories or memories of YMCA Northumberland, whether they’re connected to our current buildings in Ashington and Blyth, or our former buildings in Morpeth or Bedlington. If you’d like to share your experiences, please get in touch with us here.
YMCA Northumberland
Family & Youth Work
Health & wellbeing
Housing
Training & Education
Support & Advice
YMCA Northumberland
Family & Youth Work
Health & wellbeing
Housing
Training & Education
Support & Advice