Young Bristol's Outdoor Employment Programme Transforming Lives in 2025-26

This month, Young Bristol were pleased to receive an egg-staordinary, generous donation from local construction recruitment company, Leggwork!

‍

Leggwork have been a valued supporter of Young Bristol since 2021. They have provided financial donations, in-kind support and have regularly volunteered at our Community Youth Clubs. The team have also kindly supported us through numerous fundraising events.

‍

Young Bristol were amazed to receive a generous donation of over 680 Easter eggs from Leggwork. These Easter eggs will be distributed to young people across our Community Youth Club network, including those attending our Holiday Clubs and Open Access sessions this month!

‍

"Donating Easter eggs to Young Bristol has been a great tradition we've had at Leggwork since we started over 5 years ago. We want to play a small part in the amazing work that Young Bristol do for young people and the community. It means everything to be able to feel we've played apart in making young people's lives better around Easter time!"

‍

Justin, Director at Leggwork

‍

Thank you to Leggwork for your kind donation! If you would also like to help us support young people across Bristol, click here and find out more!

We are recruiting for a Head of Fundraising and Communications to join our Senior Leadership Team. This is an exciting opportunity to join Young Bristol – a multi-award winning charity with an outstanding record of supporting young people in the Bristol.

‍

As an organisation, our mission is to be an outstanding provider of high-quality, community-based youth services and innovative programmes that positively and sustainably impact the lives of young people.

‍

In our 2024 staff survey:

‍

• 95% of our staff team believe all cultures and backgrounds are valued
• 80% of would recommend Young Bristol as a great place to work
• 95% trust Young Bristol to treat employees fairly
• 85% say leaders communicate effectively about the organisation.

‍

By joining our dedicated team, you can help make positive impact on the lives of young people, please see below our current opportunities:

‍

‍

About the Head of Fundraising and Communications role

‍

Our Head of Fundraising & Communications will play a vital role in helping young person discover what they’re capable of. You’ll lead on generating income for the charity and partnership work as well as helping us to ensure we can continue delivering high‑quality, community‑based youth services across Bristol.

‍

Working closely with our Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team and Trustees, you’ll shape and deliver our fundraising strategy, grow a diverse income portfolio and build long‑term relationships with funders, businesses and supporters. You’ll also guide our communications activity, helping us tell powerful stories that highlight the impact of our programmes.

‍

With the charity approaching our 100-year anniversary in 2028, you will work to secure trust and foundation funding, develop corporate partnerships, steward major donors and support a small team.

‍

Hours and shifts: 37.5 hours per week, Monday - Friday

‍

How to apply:

1. Download the Head of Fundraising and Communications Job Pack and Young Bristol’s 2024-25 Impact Report‍
2. Send your completed application form via email to hr@youngbristol.com

‍

Alternatively, post an application to the address below:

Young Bristol

BS14 Youth Club

Stockwood Lane

Bristol

BS14 8SJ

‍

Closing date:

Wednesday 22nd April 2026, 5:00pm

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.”

‍

‍

Chris Eades, Founder of the Bristol Maritime Academy, added:

‍

“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.”

‍

‍

Rob Howlett, RYA Regional Manager added:

‍

“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!

‍

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 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.

‍

Thank you to our headline sponsor, Origin Workspace, and our Gold sponsor, Burges Salmon!

‍

Why support Young Bristol:

‍

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.

Youth Moves and 224 Youth Zone are delighted to announce Young Bristol as a new strategic partner, strengthening youth provision and opportunities for young people across South Bristol.

‍

The partnership brings together two organisations with deep roots in the local community and a shared commitment to empowering children and young people. By combining experience in open-access youth work and the development of the new, purpose-built 224 Youth Zone with Young Bristol’s extensive expertise in outdoor education, adventure activities and employability programmes, the collaboration will create a richer and more joined-up offer for young people.

‍

Young Bristol is a well-established youth organisation supporting children and young people across the city through a wide range of community-based youth work, mobile youth services, outdoor learning, and employability programmes. With a strong focus on building confidence, resilience and life skills, Young Bristol has a long-standing track record of delivering high-quality experiences that inspire young people to reach their potential.

‍

Through this partnership, Young Bristol will play a key role in delivering outdoor and adventure-based opportunities linked to 224 Youth Zone, including climbing, canoeing, kayaking and residential experiences. Young Bristol will also act as the preferred provider for adventure and outdoor learning, ensuring young people can access safe, engaging and aspirational activities both within the Youth Zone and beyond.

‍

The collaboration reflects a shared belief that working in partnership is essential to creating inclusive, high-quality youth provision that meets the diverse needs of young people. Together, the organisations will focus on delivering safe, engaging and aspirational opportunities that support wellbeing, confidence, skills development and positive life pathways.

‍
“We’re proud to be partnering with Young Bristol. Their experience, values and commitment to youth work align strongly with our own, and this partnership will play an important role in shaping the opportunities available to young people through 224 Youth Zone. Collaboration is at the heart of what we’re building, and this is a great example of that in action.”

‍

Matt Justice, CEO 224 Youth Zone

‍

“At Young Bristol, we’ve seen firsthand how access to the outdoors has the power to transform lives—building confidence, improving physical and mental wellbeing, and empowering young people to reach new possibilities. This exciting partnership with 224 Youth Zone will open up more opportunities for young people across South Bristol, inspiring them to embrace the outdoors and discover their full potential.” 

‍

Lee Williams DL, Chief Executive Young Bristol

‍

The partnership comes as 224 Youth Zone is getting ready to open its doors later this this year, with practical completion almost complete, preparations continue for the opening of a landmark youth facility that will support thousands of young people aged 8–19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs.

‍

Together 224 Youth Zone and Young Bristol are committed to working collaboratively to strengthen youth provision, widen access to opportunity and ensure young people across South Bristol can thrive.

‍

Young Bristol joins existing partners; Bristol Sport Foundation, Bristol Robins Foundation, Bristol Bears Foundation, Bristol Young Carers, WECIL, Off The Record and The Cause. All helping to shape an inclusive, diverse programme that supports sport, creativity, mental health, inclusion and personal development.