This project is exploring the impact of the YouthPrint model on developing the youth work sector and positive outcomes for young people across County Durham.

Funded by NE Youth as part of the National Lottery grant, a collaboration between MCYS and Durham University is exploring the impact of the YouthPrint model on developing the youth work sector across County Durham. Youth and community organisations in the County face many challenges, including insecure funding, service closures, staffing challenges and increased barriers for the young people accessing services. These barriers include poor employment opportunities, mental health and loneliness for young people. This all has a detrimental impact on the personal development of young people residing in County Durham as well as the strength and sustainability of the youth work sector. 

YouthPrint Durham is a visionary initiative aimed at creating a network of support, learning and opportunity for the young people of County Durham. The research team are conducting three phases of the evaluation, including ethnographic approaches with anchor organisations as well as interviews and workshops with youth workers across the county. The aim is to understand how YouthPrint is understood by organisations and how they interpret the model to support their services, as well as strengthening networks and funding opportunities, empowering communities through collaboration with designated anchor organisations. By developing a community led approach to the sector, YouthPrint aims to improve outcomes for young people. The findings will support the strategic direction of the model. The final report will be available in Autumn 2025.

More information about YouthPrint and NE Youth can be found here: https://neyouth.org.uk/national-lottery-fund-youthprint-durham/