Bringing the Community Together with Fun, Creativity & Support Services

The Yate Youth Festival, organised by Armadillo Youth Session in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council, brought together young people, families and local organisations for a vibrant celebration outside the Active Lifestyles Centre yesterday.

The festival formed part of the national Safer Streets Summer Initiative, a programme designed to promote safer communities, positive opportunities for young people, and stronger connections between local services and residents.

A wide variety of stalls and activities highlighted the range of opportunities and support available to young people in the area. Among those present were:

• DORIS Youth Bus – a mobile youth space offering safe, welcoming environments for young people to meet and access support.

• South Gloucestershire VRP – working to prevent violence and promote safer communities.

• Yate Youth – local youth services offering activities, clubs and mentoring opportunities.

• Learning Partnership West (LPW) – providing education, training and personal development support for young people.

• Off The Record (OTC) – delivering wellbeing and mental health support.

• Yuno – a youth-focused initiative offering creative and social opportunities.

• Kooth – an online mental health platform giving young people access to free counselling and wellbeing resources.

• Avon and Somerset Police – sharing advice on safety, careers and community support.

• LGBTQ+ Youth groups – offering safe spaces and information for young people exploring their identity.

• Graffiti Workshop – running creative workshops including graffiti art.

Alongside the information and advice, the day was packed with fun, hands-on activities for all ages. Visitors enjoyed graffiti workshops, stone painting, bracelet making, quizzes, giant connect four, as well as plenty of treats and refreshments.

The event was not only about fun but also about connection. By showcasing local services in an informal and engaging way, the festival helped young people and their families discover new opportunities for support, creativity and community involvement. The relaxed setting encouraged conversations, built confidence, and showed that a wide network of organisations is working together to ensure young people feel safe and supported.

With its mix of entertainment, creativity and practical resources, young people were able to take part in stone painting, graffiti workshops, quizzes, bracelet making and more. The Yate Youth Festival reinforced the importance of community partnerships in supporting the next generation and contributed to the wider goals of the Safer Streets Summer Initiative.