Evington Youth Club, based in Leicester, is a much-loved hub for young people, many from the local Muslim community. The club provides a safe, welcoming space for young people to socialise, play sports like football and badminton, try creative activities, and simply be themselves.

The project

The VIY project delivered a major transformation of the youth club, restoring pride in a building that was in serious need of TLC. Works included:

• Repairing rotting fascias and repainting the exterion
• Full internal redecoration throughout
• Renovation of the sports hall, entrance and snooker room
• Installation of new panelling and refreshed finishes in key spaces
• Bespoke artwork created by local artist Nick Blaney

See behind the scenes here.

Impact

The transformation has given Evington Youth Club a vibrant new look inside and out, creating a more welcoming and inspiring environment for young people and community groups. The refreshed space will encourage greater participation, restore community pride, and ensure the club can continue supporting local young people for years to come.

13 volunteers from the local community supported the project, contributing their time and skills to help bring the refurbishment to life.

Young people

33 young people took part in the VIY experience at Evington Youth Club. Referrals came from Connexions Leicester, Construction Hub, Job Centre Leicester, Turning Point Leicester and independent referrals.

• 55% of yon people were NEET, 24% were EET at risk and 21% were EET not at risk. Many faced additional risk-of-NEET factors including Free School Meals, experience of custody and EHCPs.
• 79% identified as non-White British.
• 43% of learners had a physical disability, learning difficulty or mental health condition.

Accreditations

31 Entry Level 3 City & Guilds accreditations were achieved in Introducing Paint Finishing Skills

Progressions

VIY continues to track young people’s progression over a 12-month period. To date, positive next steps include:

• 7 x education progressions, including Construction Multiskills with Trans4m Training, Sport Science at Leicester College and Patisserie & Confectionery Skills at Leicester College

• 1 x employment progression with Bleckmann Logistics

• 80% of learners felt more confident in four or more soft skills
• 93% felt their hopes and aspirations had increased
• 100% felt more confident about getting a job in the future
• 97% were more aware of opportunities in the construction industry
• 80% reported improved happiness and wellbeing
• 73% felt their physical health had improved
• 97% would recommend VIY to others
• 100% said taking part was a positive experience