Last Thursday, around 40 young people from across the city gathered for the first-ever Sunderland Youth Action Unlocked event — a youth-led initiative designed to empower young people to explore local issues and take positive action towards a greener, cleaner, healthier, and more connected Sunderland.
The event was led by North East charity, The Key, backed by Sunderland City Council’s Carbon Team and delivered in partnership with Sunderland Altogether Consortium.
The programme brings together young people from youth organisations across the city to discuss the challenges they face in their neighbourhoods and begin shaping practical solutions.
After discussing challenges and opportunities in their neighbourhoods, young people reflected on what makes their local areas positive places to live and what could be improved. They identified key priorities and began shaping ideas to make Sunderland the best place for residents.
Highlighting the importance of young people having a say, Nathan, 15, said:
“I think it’s important for young people to have their voices heard because they are the next generation. Decisions being made today will affect us, so it’s vital that young people’s opinions are part of the process.”
Across the groups, early priorities emerged around transport links, improving youth opportunities in Southwick and Hendon, and increasing access to green spaces in Washington that young people can enjoy safely.
Young people are now developing their project ideas and getting ready to take action on the changes they want to see in their communities. This event marks the first major milestone in the Youth Action Unlocked journey, and they will soon pitch their KEY+ Challenge projects directly to Sunderland City Council members, who will decide which ideas receive funding.
Reflecting on the importance of youth‑led action, Isaac, 14, shared:
“Youth‑led action matters because young people shape the future. We should be the ones influencing the next generation.”
Rebecca Maw, CEO of The Key, said:
“Young people understand their communities better than anyone. Through the KEY+ Challenge, they take the lead – bringing forward ideas that are relevant and grounded in real experience. Youth Action Unlocked shows what’s possible when young people are trusted to shape decisions and take action. We’re proud to support them as they take action that will make a genuine difference across Sunderland.”
The Sunderland Youth Action Unlocked programme will continue over the coming months as young people build on their ideas and prepare to pitch projects designed to create lasting, youth‑driven change in their communities.
