Fenland, a rural area in Cambridgeshire, faced youth vulnerability due to poverty, limited services, and exploitation risks. In response, Cambridgeshire County Council (CCC) launched the Fenland Youth Work Network in 2024, introducing youth-led initiatives like “Inspire Youth Through Sports” and “Fenland Youth Tribe.” These projects fostered safe spaces, resilience, and community ties. Over 200 young people engaged, leading to improved wellbeing and reduced exploitation. Sustainability is ensured through community ownership, partnerships, and ongoing support. The initiative highlights the power of co-designed, place-based youth work in transforming outcomes in disadvantaged rural areas.
The challenge
Fenland, a rural and disadvantaged district in Cambridgeshire, faces high levels of child poverty and educational challenges. Young people aged 11–18 are particularly vulnerable to serious violence, exploitation, and county lines involvement. Fragmented youth services and limited safe spaces compounded the risks. Cambridgeshire County Council identified the need for a coordinated, community-led approach to engage at-risk youth, build resilience, and improve safety outcomes. The challenge was to create inclusive, sustainable support systems that reflect young people's voices and address their complex needs in a geographically dispersed and resource-constrained area.
The solution
Coordinated by the council’s Communities Service, the Fenland Youth Work Network (FYWN) launched two targeted initiatives in 2024: “Inspire Youth Through Sports” and “Fenland Youth Tribe.” These projects combined physical activity, youth cafés, detached youth work, and social media engagement to create safe, supportive environments. Community volunteers, local partnerships, and surplus food donations enhanced sustainability and inclusivity. The initiatives were co-designed with young people and supported by the Fenland Community Safety Partnership, ensuring alignment with safeguarding priorities. This collaborative, place-based model empowered youth, strengthened community ties, and provided holistic support tailored to local needs.
The impact
Over 200 young people, including those known to the Community Safety Partnership, regularly engaged with the projects. Weekly sessions attracted 30+ participants, fostering resilience, positive relationships, and life skills. Tangible outcomes included improved access to food, clothing, and services, successful youth-led campaigns for skate park lighting, and reduced risk of exploitation. The initiatives demonstrated the power of trusted adult relationships and community-driven support. They also contributed to the council’s broader ambitions by reducing health inequalities, promoting sustainability, and enhancing community safety. The projects have become a model for effective, youth-centred intervention in rural, high-need areas.
How is the new approach being sustained?
Sustainability is driven by strong community ownership, ongoing partnerships, and CCC’s place-based support model. Local volunteers, youth workers, and Voluntary Community Faith Sector (VCFS) providers continue to lead sessions, supported by training, governance guidance, and seed funding from the council. The Youth Work Network fosters collaboration, resource-sharing, and peer support. Social media keeps young people engaged and informed. Annual conferences and regular newsletters ensure continuous learning and adaptation. The integration of youth voice and community assets ensures the approach remains responsive, relevant, and resilient, embedding long-term change and enabling young people to thrive within their own communities.
Lessons learned
Effective youth engagement requires listening to young people and co-creating solutions with them. Building trust through consistent, community-led support is key to reducing risk and promoting wellbeing. Collaboration across statutory and voluntary sectors enhances impact and sustainability. Flexibility, local knowledge, and asset-based development are essential in rural contexts. Investing in training, infrastructure, and communication tools empowers communities to lead. The success of FYWN highlights the importance of aligning grassroots initiatives with strategic goals, demonstrating that meaningful change is possible when young people are supported by trusted adults and inclusive, place-based networks.
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