Who are we?
Growing up in the Cotswolds isn’t always honey-suckle sweet. For many, the rolling hills play backdrop to a story of isolation and limited opportunity.
The Cotswold Youth Network (CYN) is dedicated to tackling these issues and improve outcomes for young people in the Cotswolds by:
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Increasing access to positive opportunities.
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Breaking down barriers.
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Showcasing young talent.
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Supporting vulnerable young people.
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Giving young people a voice in decisions that affect them.
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We focus on those facing economic hardship, rural disadvantage, and disabilities, ensuring no one is left behind.
Challenges of being a Young Person in the Cotswolds
Young people here face unique obstacles:
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Geography: The Cotswolds is the 3rd most rural district in the South West, spanning 450 sq. miles.
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Transport: A nearly non-existent public transport system.
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Jobs: Limited local job opportunities with lower pay rates.
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Recreation: A lack of accessible activities without money, transport, or support.
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Social Inequalities: Visible wealth disparities and aging populations prioritised by councils.
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Learn more about challenges facing young people. LINK NEEDED
What Young People say about the Cotswolds
John (16): “It’s Groundhog Day here. Everything is for old people, and there’s nothing to do.”
Jess (16): “It’s just not fair. Some kids have all the resources, and the rest of us are stuck.”
Background to the Cotswold Youth Network
For the past five years, the Cotswold Youth Network has been actively engaged in various initiatives aimed at changing this story and enhancing the lives of young people in the district. During this time, the network has had success in:
• Funding: the CYN managed a three-year National Lottery programme of over £300,000, supporting the establishment of new youth clubs, holiday provision, and training opportunities for members. We have supported various organisations to secure funding for young people's initiatives, leading to new provisions and services.
• Inclusion: implemented inclusion projects catering to the needs of young individuals with disabilities, alongside mapping out inclusive provisions with the Inclusion Asset Map.
• Voice & participation: we conducted extensive consultations with children, young people, and professionals working with them, sharing insights with stakeholders through projects like the Voice & Participation Project 2023.
• Supporting youth initiatives: we provided youth grant funding for youth-led ideas up to £10,000 raised from the ILP.
• Integration: we integrated the Holiday Activities and Food Programme with the CYN. We have facilitated meetings, partnerships, and collaborations across various organisations, councils, and statutory bodies.
Priorities and Moving Forward
We’re shaping the future with these goals:
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Provide more positive activities for children and young people.
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Promote existing youth and play services.
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Build a strong infrastructure for youth support.
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Empower young people to have a say in decisions.
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Enhance inclusive provisions for children with additional needs.
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