Youth Opportunities Grant Empowers Local Young People with Innovative Projects

The 2025 Youth Opportunities Grant, delivered by Cheshire West and Chester Council, is funding 16 inspiring projects that will help to give young people a better start in life.

From theatre and crafts to cooking and climbing, these initiatives help build confidence, develop practical skills, and strengthen community connections.

This year, the 16 projects for young people, selected by young people, from 62 applications have been picked for thei creativity and alignment with local and national priorities.

The grant offers up to £5,000 per project, with decisions made by a panel that includes representatives from the Youth Senate, who hold the majority vote. These young people also visit funded projects throughout the year to see the impact first hand.

Cllr Adam Langan, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said:

“The Youth Opportunities Grant is about empowering young people and giving them access to experiences that build confidence, skills, and community connections. These projects reflect the creativity and resilience of our borough, and I’m delighted to see such a diverse range of opportunities being offered.”

Among the successful projects are:

• Little Actors Theatre Company – Youth Empowerment Through Theatre
  Offering inclusive theatre workshops at Neston Town Hall, this programme focuses on improvisation, vocal techniques, and creative expression to inspire confidence and personal growth.
• Blacon Beacon – Cooking Fundamentals
  A hands-on cooking course for ages 12-18 with SEND (up to 25 for vulnerable young people), teaching food hygiene, meal planning, and budgeting. It also introduces career pathways in the food industry and offers accredited food hygiene certifications.
• Cuddington Knit Wits
  A creative craft project where young people design and make a decorative topper for a local post box. Workshops include felting and ornament decoration, encouraging teamwork and artistic skills.
• Junior #iChooseBoard
  A monthly group providing a safe, inclusive space for young people with Down syndrome to explore issues that matter to them. Sessions include creative arts, confidence-building workshops, and guest speakers, with staff trained in Makaton and safeguarding to ensure full support.
• Chester District Climbing Wall
  Funding will enable the purchase of a climbing wall for Chester District Scouts, which will also be available for hire by other youth and community groups.
• Mobile Barista Course
  A practical hospitality programme teaching coffee-making skills aligned with industry trends. Participants gain hands-on experience and work placements with local businesses.
• Teen Independence and Living Skills Course
  A structured programme supporting young people with autism to develop vital life skills in an autism-aware environment. Two 8-week courses will run in Spring and Autumn, each accommodating up to 15 participants and led by trained staff experienced in working with autistic young people.

These projects demonstrate the Council’s commitment to supporting young people through creative, educational, and skill-building opportunities that make a lasting impact.