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Now more than ever before, young people and families across Bristol need the support of charity’s such as Young Bristol.
Are you deciding on your New Years resolution for 2024? Are you continuing your 2023 health and fitness habits? This year you can make a difference by taking on the Bath Half Marathon and raise money for a local cause! Grab your trainers and get fundraising!
"I have really enjoyed fundraising because of the work Young Bristol does. On the day, I really liked the vest. It was quite a challenge, but I enjoyed it all-in-all.” Angad, Bath Half Marathon runner 2023
The 42nd Bath Half Marathon is planned to take place on Sunday 17th March 2024, from 10:00am. This takes place in the heart of the World Heritage City of Bath. We ask that runners taking part in the Bath Half for Young Bristol pledge to raise £250.
By entering the race, you will receive:
Chip timing, race number and race day instructions
Tough Mudder – Saturday 10th August 2024, Gloucester
All runners that choose to fundraise and run for Young Bristol for us will receive a FREE runners vest.
If you would like to find out more information about these events or want to run a different race for Young Bristol, click here!
"The day was perfect for running. The build up was easier knowing you’re raising money for such a worthwhile cause!” Justin, Bath Half Marathon runner 2023
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How your support will make a difference.
Here in Bristol, Young Bristol continues to respond at the frontline with great initiatives to keep young people engaged, inspired, empower and active.
£70 pays for one young person on our Outdoor Employment Programme to gain a qualification
£120 pays for 12 children to spend a day canoeing
£240 pays for 2 evenings of Youth Work for 50 young people
Our Fundraising Team are here to support you! If you are interested in signing up to run for Young Bristol, or take part in a race not listed above then please contact our friendly team. Get in touch with Abraham Turner, Fundraising Coordinator on 0117 929 2513 or email Abraham.turner@youngbristol.com.
Related articles
Get all the latest updates from Young Bristol, our supporters, and your local community.
Young Bristol were pleased to partner with the RYA and Bristol Maritime Academy to pilot a new marine career pathway for young people in Bristol, as part of the 'New Horizons Project'.
The career pathway is the newest initiative of the 'New Horizons Project', which has been running across the Bristol area for over five years, introducing hundreds of young people from the ages of 10-20 to sailing and water sports, many of whom may not otherwise have had access to the water.
This year, Young Bristol has supported the first cohort of 11 young adults from our Outdoor Employment Programme to complete its first year, undertaking a structured pathway designed to equip them with industry‑recognised RYA qualifications. Trainees achieved First Aid, Sea Survival, Marine Radio (SRC) and the RYA PPR (Professional Practices and Responsibilities) course alongside their Powerboat Level 2 certificates.
These qualifications provide the full commercial endorsement, enabling our Trainees to operate powerboats professionally and making them valuable assets to employers across harbours, docks, waterway operations and a wide range of commercial marine environments.
Work placements and employment pathways are being developed with the Bristol Harbour Master, local docks teams and Bristol Maritime, ensuring real opportunities for young people ready to take their next steps into marine work.
Phil Harris, Outdoor Employment Programme Lead said:
“The trainees Young Bristol's Outdoor Employment Programme have benefited immensely from this project. Thirteen young people facing barriers to employment have been given incredible opportunities through this training. Many have already secured job interviews and begun conversations with employers.
The commitment and hard work shown by the trainees has been truly inspiring. Partnerships like this draw on the strengths of all organisations involved and create outcomes far greater than the sum of their parts. We are proud to be contributing to such an impactful project in Bristol.”
“At Bristol Maritime, many of us started without family connections to the water, just a Powerboat Level 2 qualification and a passion for being outdoors on the waterways. Through The New Horizons Project, we’re proud to help people from Bristol and outside the sector get qualified and discover opportunities both globally and, on their doorstep, — from running workboats to supporting environmental projects and teaching others on the water.
By linking this first cohort with organisations such as the Bristol Harbour Authority and our own water safety company, BM Safety, we’re helping them take their first real steps into careers on the water.”
“From windsurfing and dinghy sailing to keelboats and yachts, there are so many ways for young people in Bristol to get out on the water. These opportunities build confidence and give them practical skills that can naturally lead into local marine careers. Through the New Horizons Project, we’ve been able to bring community groups, clubs, trainers and employers together, showing that boating is truly accessible and can open doors for young people who might never have considered the sector.
As interest grows, we’re now looking to expand the project to help even more employers find young people with recognised powerboat qualifications.”
Young Bristol remains committed to ensuring that all young people can access meaningful opportunities, develop new skills and build brighter futures. If you would like to find out more about our Outdoor Employment Programme, and how you can get involved with projects similar to the 'New Horizons Project', click here!
On Sunday 15th March, we were pleased to see Oli from Unite Students and four employees from Istoria Group sign up to the Bath Half Marathon to raise money for Young Bristol!
The Bath Half Marathon is a 13 mile race, with the course following a two-lap route through the heart of Bath. The race is known for its scenic views and great spectator support, being one of the UK's most popular races.
"This was my first half marathon, so it was brilliant to see how many people came out to support all the runners. Their support (and hi-fives), running with my lovely mum and knowing what an amazing cause I was supporting is what made me achieve a time that was well under my goal."
said Oli Blacklidge ,Bath Half Marathon runner
It has been amazing to see the five participants prepare for their exciting challenge, all while fundraising for our young people.
Thank you to all our participants for taking part in the Bath Half Marathon to raise money for young people across Bristol - we appreciate your incredible support!
If you are interested in taking part in a third party fundraising event for Young Bristol, click here and learn how you can help fundraise for us!
On Saturday 7th March, we were pleased to see James and Olie sign up to the Green Man Ultra Marathon to raise money for Young Bristol!
The Green Man Ultra is a 30 or 45-mile ultramarathon that loops around the city of Bristol, following the Community Forest Path. The event is ran twice a year, with the winter event often featuring muddy conditions.
It has been amazing to see James and Olie prepare for this exciting challenge, all while fundraising for our young people.
Thank you to both of our participants for taking part in the Green Man Ultra Marathon - we appreciate your incredible support!
If you are interested in taking part in a third party fundraising event for Young Bristol, click here and learn how you can help fundraise for us!
We are thrilled to share that three trainees from our Outdoor Employment Programme have successfully passed their 'Go Aloft!' Instructor Training programme!
Our Outdoor Employment Programme is an entirely free programme, targetting young people aged 16 - 25 with barriers to employment. The programme helps young people to develop new skills, gain nationally recognised qualifications and build positive futures into employment.
After considerable training with Young Bristol's Outdoor Employment Programme, a group of three trainees have passed their High Ropes Instructor Assessment and will now work with SS Great Britain's 'Go Aloft! experience, supporting thousands of people to climb the rigging of the ship!
'It's fantastic to be working with Young Bristol again to bring Go Aloft back to Brunel's SS Great Britain. Not only is this a unique and awe-inspiring outdoor experience for seafarers and landlubbers alike, it's also a long-lasting partnership between two Bristol charities which continues to enable young people to gain qualifications, skills and experience in the world of work.'
said Liam Tolhurst, Deputy Director - Commercial & Operations at the SS Great Britain Trust
Our partnership with SS Great Britain
We know that through real collaborations and partnerships, initiatives such as the Outdoor Employment Programme continue to change the lives of young people across Bristol.
Following our 10+ years of collaboration, the SS Great Britain have directly supported over 70 of our Trainees through the 'Go Aloft! programme, which has seen around 15,000 people climb the rigging of the iconic ship!
Through our collaboration with the Go Aloft programme, we have seen over 90% of those employed through the partnership remain in employment or move into full time education, which is an incredible testament to both the programme and our partnership!
"Working with Young Bristol on the SS Great Britain is by far one of the most rewarding training programmes I have been part of over the last 10 years. This programme has been created by one of the most energized and empathetic charities there is.
Phil, who leads the programme, provides the inspiration and support to make it succeed. I have seen young adults find a footpath into outdoor education and then going on to flourish and grow both professionally and as individuals. Well done SSGB and young people for providing this opportunity to work on Go Aloft."
said Rod Baber, Owner of RDB High Ropes Operation Services, providing training on SS Great Britains 'Go Aloft!' programme.
The Outdoor Employment Programmes impact!
Since the launch of our Outdoor Employment Programme in 2013, we have changed the lives of over 300 young people from ‘NEET’ (Not in Education, Employment,or Training) backgrounds or those ‘at risk’. Over 80% of trainees, since joining the programme, have started further education or employment within the first year – an incredible accomplishment.
The Outdoor Employment Programme has provided a vital lifeline for young people from many backgrounds, including during times of homelessness, and young carers who have the responsibility of looking after family members. Our programme gives young people the mentoring, skills and tools they need to successfully navigate their way back into education or employment; through long term, stable support they can rely on.
“The programme definitely came at the right time. It helped me to experience what it was like to hold down a job and raised my self-confidence.”
said Dan, former Outdoor Employment Programme Trainee
The hundreds of young people that have passed through this programme will agree that the programme is truly life-changing! If you would like to join our Outdoor Employment Programme, click here to find out more information and sign up!
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Lauren Hunt, our Youth Engagement Worker!
Lauren has always felt passionate about supporting and engaging with people. She began working in care at the age of 16, and has since gained experience in mental health settings through volunteering in a prison and supporting the rehabilitation of individuals. Alongside this, Lauren is currently completing a Psychology degree. She is looking forward to supporting young people across our Community Youth Club network to help build confidence and hear their voices.
We hope you will join us in welcoming Lauren to the Young Bristol team! Find out more about our team here!
Young Bristol are delighted to have been shortlisted for the 'Charity' category at the Bristol Life Awards 2026!
The Bristol Life Awards celebrates organisations in Bristol under 22 nomination categories. These are the most prestigious, most tightly contested Awards with the greatest number of local companies involved.
Young Bristol have been shortlisted for the 'Charity' category in 2026, which highlights local, independent registered charities to showcase their cause and the great contribution that they make locally.
We were nominated and shortlisted for the 'Charity' category as we stand as a beacon of empowerment, opportunity and community for young people. Our work has not only impacted young people, but the communities our services are based in. Many of our services remain situated in areas of high deprivation, where young people are cut off from the things that they need and care about most.
"The youth club means everything to me, it literally saved me!"
Young Bristol transformed young people lives during 2025:
23,743 attendances with 8-25 year olds
8 Youth Clubs provided safe spaces for 1,340 young people within some of Bristol's most underserved communities
Over 1,172 meals and food workshops provided through School Holiday Clubs, helping to address food poverty
50 participants aged 16-25 from our Outdoor Employment Programme achieved a number of National Governing Body qualifications Over 80% of participants went into employment or full time education within the first year
Thank you to the Bristol Life Awards for recognising the incredible work of Young Bristol, and the dedication and hard-work of the team behind the organisation. Our team look forward to attending the awards ceremony on Thursday 26th March. A huge congratulations to all the other amazing charities that were shortlisted in the category.
On Wednesday 28th January, Young Bristol were excited to welcome our supporters, staff team, young people, and their families to our 2025 Awards and Celebration Evening.
The annual celebration saw stories shared from our staff, volunteers, and the young people we work with, highlighted our growth and impact, and guests enjoyed fantastic entertainment performed by young people from our Youth Clubs.
Our Awards and Celebration Evening took place at the Burges Salmon offices, one of Young Bristol's valued supporters; the event saw a jam‑packed evening full of inspiring speakers, performances and a presentation of awards.
To kick off the event, it was great to hear from Young Bristol's President, Jonathan Webb, and Chair, Jamie Cameron, who outlined our charity's impact over the last year and our key achievements and focuses for 2025 - 2028.
The event welcomed supporters and key individuals who have been impacted by, and seen first-hand, the long-term positive effects of Young Bristols services. Trustee Shannon Ringland spoke about her experience of Young Bristol as a teenager, and how our Outdoor Employment Programme transformed her life, and supported her to gain the skills that she still uses today.
I took part in the Outdoor Employment Programme around 10 years ago, at a point in my life where I was new to the City, finding my feet and not entirely sure where I was heading. The programme gave me confidence, direction and a sense that there were people willing to invest their time and belief in me. Becoming a Trustee felt like a full-circle moment. I wanted to give back to an organisation that gave so much to me, to help ensure the same opportunities I benefited from are available to young people across Bristol.
Alongside Shannon, were thrilled to welcome a number of young people from across a number of our Youth Clubs and programmes to the stage during the event. Eight young people from Avon Youth Club performed a dance, two young people read a poem about their experience at their local Youth Club. Attendees also heard from trainees from our Outdoor Employment Programme, who showcased their recent involvement in a sustainability project. All of these young people proudly shared their experiences, talents and stories with the 100 people that attended!
One of the key highlights of the evening was the presentation of Awards throughout the evening, which recognised the fantastic achievements of our staff and the young people we support.
We welcomed our 2025 Competition Winners, young people who engaged in our Inter Club programmes and opportunities. Young people were recognised for their involvement in sports tournaments and creative competitions. We were excited to announce Hartcliffe Club for Young People, this years winner of our Young Bristol Shield, which is awarded to the Youth Club who received the most points for entering and winning our events and competitions throughout the year. Congratulations!
Our Long Service Award presentation brought together Young Bristol staff, Trustees and supporters, who were recognised for their incredible contribution to the charity over the years. The awards were presented by Lord Mayor, Councillor Henry Michallat to Corinne Ludwell, celebrating 15 years, Jack Jones, celebrating 15 years, as well as Sue Williams, celebrating a staggering 25 years as our longest serving staff member!
To round-up the awards, we were thrilled to invite the twelve finalists of this years 'Young Person of the Year' award to the stage. This award recognises the amazing achievements of young people across the city, that attend our sessions and programmes.
His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant Mrs Peaches Golding OBE CStJ presented each of the finalists with a certificate and a voucher. We were pleased to announce Kyah, age 12 from Hartcliffe Club for Young People and Lola, age 15 from Sea Mills Boys' and Girls Club, as our highly commended finalists for the awards. Both received headphones and a voucher for their achievement. We were then delighted to reveal Dan, age 20, from the Outdoor Employment Programme as this years winner! He was presented with a trophy, vouhcer and iPad!
Dan was selected as this years winner for his positivity, determination, and resilience that make him an outstanding role model, and a complete joy for the Outdoor Activities team to work alongside. He is a huge asset at Pooles Wharf and the Outdoor Employment Programme, regularly volunteering at our Gig Club, Holiday Clubs and Kayak Club. His determination has seen him complete SuperSliders Bronze, Silver and Gold, run High Ropes training for trainees, and secure employment with Woodhouse Park.
We would like to thank our supporters, donors and funders for their continued support of our work with children and young people in and around Bristol. To find out how you can support us, click here!
Young Bristol are incredibly proud to announce that Dan, member of Outdoor Employment Programme, was awarded our 2025 ‘Young Person of the Year’!
On Wednesday 28th January, Young Bristol welcomed our supporters, Patron, President, Board of Trustees, staff team, and young people and their families to our Awards and Celebration Evening. The event celebrated a year of growth, impact and stories from individuals across the organisation.
As part of the event, twelve finalists were invited for this years ‘Young Person of the Year’ award, which recognises the amazing achievements of young people across the city, that attend our sessions and programmes. The award was judged anonymously by a panel, with the winner receiving an incredible prize package.
On the evening, young people were presented with a certificate from His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant Mrs Peaches Golding OBE CStJ. It was revealed on the evening that Dan, age 20, from the Outdoor Employment Programme was this years winner! He was presented with a trophy, a voucher and an iPad. Congratulations Dan!
Well done to all finalists who were selected for this years award. You should be incredibly proud of your commitment, growth and impact that you are having in your programmes and communities!
Young Bristol are delighted to be hosting our ‘Dinner for Young Futures’.
This special dining experience will bring together local businesses and supporters to raise vital funds for our work with Bristol’s children and young people - celebrating 98 years of delivering life changing opportunities.
More details about the event:
Thursday 26th March 2026, 6:45pm
The Orangery Dining Room at The Pony Chew Magna, BS40 8TQ
Tickets: £98 per person
Ticket prices include a selection of canapés on arrival, a delicious three-course dinner and welcome drinks and wine on the table. The evening will include speakers; giving guests the opportunity to hear from those who have been supported and positively impacted by the fantastic work of Young Bristol. The event also offers fantastic networking opportunities with like-minded individuals, in support of a great cause.
Our youth workers are there for young people when they need them – listening, mentoring, and offering opportunities that help build confidence and brighter futures.
Many young people face challenges no child should have to navigate: poverty, isolation, family difficulties, and the daily effects of the cost-of-living crisis. And demand for Young Bristol’s services continues to grow.
Without a warm, safe building and a trusted youth worker inside it, there is no club, no conversation, no positive change.
You already know the difference Young Bristol makes; and it is your belief in our work that has carried us through many years and allowed us to provide a lifeline to those who need it most. By supporting Young Bristol, you will help ensure that our doors remain open, our youth workers remain present, and young people continue to have somewhere they belong.
