2024 up to now... Update from The Participation Works

Our Youth & Community Van has been out and about engaging with young people in the heart of their communities. Since our launch last November we've welcomed over 500 young people onboard, tackling anti-social behaviour, a range of other issues & signposting to other services.

Here's our Youth Panel & Rise Up volunteer Zoey showing off her own design which is printed on the interior.

As of 18th September, the Van is visiting Worsthorne Village Centre every Wednesday 6:15-9pm for around 6 weeks.

Think our Youth & Community Van could benefit your area? Email lynne@participationworks.co.uk to let us know.

The Van has been put to further use as a mobile venue for our Dry Bar project, funded by the Community Alcohol Partnership. We've been shaking up mocktails and raising awareness of the effects of alcohol on young people. These events have been really popular - look out for us setting up the bar near you!

Thanks also to We Are With You for support with this project.

We received funding from the Police Crime Commissioner to provide a daytime youth work service over the summer holidays. We took the van to various locations around Burnley & Padiham to engage with young people off school. We also took part in the Children & Family Wellbeing Service's summer programme in the Burnley parks as part of the HAF programme - it was great to be involved!

On 3rd April we celebrated our 20th birthday as an organisation! We held a celebration in the theatre room at our office location of BYT and it was a fantastic event, attended by partner services, supporters, young people & many who have benefited from our projects over the last 20 years.

We had mocktails & afternoon tea provided by Burnley Leisure, a photo booth, raffle, caricatures and a spoken word artist who captured the essence of the event and who we are. The event was a great way to recap & reflect on our achievements over the years and look ahead to the future. Thanks to all who attended!


In July we were proud to be shortlisted for the Burnley Business Awards in the Small Business category. There was tough competition and although we didn't win, what an achievement to be recognised among so many other great local businesses. We had a great night at the awards ceremony and were able to take 3 of our young volunteers along with us for an unforgettable experience. Big thanks to Scott Chapman at Scope Fire & Security for sponsoring the boys with their suits.


Burnley Council and Department for Work & Pensions have allocated us a Household Support Fund to run a Money Management Project in local high schools. This early intervention aims to encourage young people to make wise choices with budgeting, bills & all things money so that they are well-equipped before entering young adulthood.

This project has been really successful at Sir John Thursby and continues at two new schools into the autumn term.“I love learning new things and I have loved these sessions, the cooking session was great! I like spending time with the Youth Workers too. They are fun and helpful”
- feedback from one participant