Kirklees Together

Do you run a youth service or youth activity in Kirklees?

We are welcoming funding applications from local groups to help us expand and improve youth facilities across the district.

Thanks to our investment of around £1million, alongside our partners we are launching Our Space. This is an exciting new way of offering services for children and young people.

Our Space

Our Space will enhance current facilities used by groups who provide a safe place for children and young people to visit, meet friends and make friends. They will also be able to access support and take part in a wide range of high-quality activities.

Grant applications have opened for voluntary, community, social enterprise or youth sector organisations. Groups should currently provide youth services in Kirklees for 13 to 19-year-olds (or up to 25 years for young people with special educational needs and disabilities). Find more details by visiting the funding page on the council website.

What happens if you’re successful? 

Successful applicants will receive capital grants to deliver fantastic, inclusive places to support mental and physical health. If your group is eligible to bid, you are encouraged to attend an online event on April 6 (5pm) and hear more details about the process – please register your interest by sending an email to our.space@kirklees.gov.uk

Mel Meggs, Strategic Director for Children’s Services, said:

“Our Space will transform youth provision in Kirklees. It will mean every child and young person from the age of 13 can access a safe place and a range of activities and support.

“This is an exciting project which is going to have a huge impact on communities across Kirklees. The council’s investment of around £1million highlights our commitment to making a lasting, long-term difference.

“We are delighted to be working with partner organisations. The organisations have been key to developing the Our Space programme. They will help us to ensure it’s a great success.

“Together, our aim is for all our children and young people to feel safe and included, to make new friends and to have brilliant experiences.

“Individual grants can range from £10,000 to £75,000. We want to hear from all those organisations who can not only meet local needs but also enhance youth facilities in Kirklees.

“We value the role of every group who work alongside us and support children and young people to enjoy the best start in life.”

Who developed the concept? 

Partners originally developed the Our Space concept.  Cabinet agreed on the funding for the programme in 2021.

We’ve also had families and young people involved in developing the project. We are very proud that students at Kirklees College have supported the design of branding.

As part of the project, we are exploring mobile youth services to reach young people in rural areas. Removing barriers so those from marginalised groups are supported to attend is also being explored.

Two new Our Space venues in Huddersfield and North Kirklees, could be provided at a later date with further investment.

The partner organisations involved in Our Space are: C+K Careers Ltd, Kirklees Active Leisure, Kirklees Youth Alliance, Kirklees College, Conscious Youth, West Yorkshire Police, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Locala, Yorkshire Children’s Centre and Pivot Education.