The Foundation is delighted to become a Founding Patron and commit £300,000 to the build of the OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway.
The Foundation has long supported the Youth Zone in Dagenham and is excited to see the impact a new Youth Zone will have in Thurrock and it’s surrounding areas.
The Youth Zone is a state-of-the-art youth centre being delivered by national charity OnSide, in partnership with Thurrock Council and Tilbury Towns Fund. Once complete, the Youth Zone will be an independent charity and part of the growing OnSide Network of 18 Youth Zones nationwide, supporting more than 60,000 young people annually to explore their potential
Barry Hearn OBE, President of Matchroom Sport Ltd said: ‘All my life I’ve loved nurturing talent. We know everyone’s DNA is unique, so we are all good at something different. All young people should have access to places like Youth Zones to discover their talent – and especially for blue collar careers or entrepreneurs like me. For several years I’ve been supporting the Youth Zone near where I grew up in Barking and Dagenham and now I’m so proud to help bring one closer to my business HQ in Essex. Let’s all get behind our young people and help them fly.’
Barry and Katie Hearn made the trip to the site on Anchor Fields, to see the construction in action, and learn about the key milestones achieved so far. These include the near completion of the foundations and underground infrastructure work with the Youth Zone’s opening planned for late 2027.
Once open, the Youth Zone will offer a safe and welcoming space all year round to young people aged between eight and 18 (up to 25 for those with additional needs), for just £5 annual membership and 50p a visit. Those who sign up will have access to an indoor climbing wall, two-court sports hall, training kitchen, music room with a recording studio, fully equipped gym with boxing facilities, a performing arts space, 3G kick pitch, arts and crafts room, sensory room, and an enterprise and employability suite.
The Young People’s Development Group said: “The Youth Zone can help make a difference in the area to help get kids in this generation off their phones, off the street and start socialising with others.”
In addition to these incredible facilities, trained youth workers and dedicated volunteers will be available to offer guidance and holistic support, to help the area’s young people to thrive. The Youth Zone will also benefit the wider community and create permanent full and part-time jobs, as well as many volunteering opportunities.
Bethanie Cundy, OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway CEO said: “OnSide Youth Zone Thames Gateway would not be possible without our dedicated supporters. To be able thank them and come together today to celebrate its progress, has been fantastic. Not only will you find the Youth Zone’s strong foundations on site, you’ll also find them building amongst a community determined to empower Thurrock’s young people.”
