Volunteering is often seen as something people do later in life, when they have more time or experience. But across North Tyneside, young people are already making a real difference in ways that are shaped around their needs, interests and experiences.
For many young people, the barriers to volunteering can be significant. Confidence, lack of experience or simply not knowing where to start can make opportunities feel out of reach. That is why the role of organisations that understand and support young volunteers is so important.
Creating the right environment
Organisations like Phoenix Detached Youth Project (PDYP) and DiscoverMe are helping to create opportunities that feel accessible, supportive and relevant.
Their approach recognises that youth volunteering is not just about giving time. It is about building confidence, creating safe environments and giving young people the space to explore what they are capable of.
Rather than expecting young people to step straight into formal roles, these organisations support them to get involved at their own pace, building trust and confidence over time.
“You do not need a lot of time or experience to make a difference.”
Youth-led action in North Tyneside
At Phoenix Detached Youth Project, young volunteers are leading their own initiatives through the I.N.I.T.I.A.T.E Youth Ambassadors group.
The group chose their own name to reflect their purpose: Include, Now, Involved, Together, Intergen, Accessible, Trust, Everyone
Since January 2026, they have been delivering a range of social action projects while building confidence, teamwork and leadership skills.
One standout example is their “Trip Down Memory Lane” afternoon tea project at Chirton Lodge, where young people connected with older members of the community through meaningful intergenerational conversations.
They have also launched a TikTok account with PDYP to share their journey and encourage more young people to get involved.
Visit their TikTok channel here.
@phoenixdetached
A personal journey: Alec’s story
For some young people, volunteering becomes a turning point.
Alec Clavering, a volunteer and co-facilitator with DiscoverMe, describes how volunteering has transformed his confidence and sense of direction.
“Before volunteering, I felt like I didn’t really know who I was. I felt very much lost.”
After being unemployed for over two years, Alec found an opportunity through Discover Me that allowed him to rebuild his confidence and start looking ahead.
“It’s helped develop my confidence massively… I’ve started making future plans for my career.”
Alec now supports sessions, works alongside professionals in the field he is interested in, and is studying guidance and counselling at Northumbria University.
Through volunteering, he has been able to:
- Build confidence
- Gain real experience
- Connect with professionals
- Feel more prepared for future work
“It’s helped me work with people who are professionals in the field… It’s helped me network.”
His experience highlights something many young volunteers feel: volunteering is not just about giving time; it is also about gaining direction, confidence and opportunity.
Why youth volunteering matters
Youth volunteering creates a positive cycle. It strengthens communities while also supporting young people to develop skills, confidence and a sense of belonging.
“They found simple ways to give back while building confidence.”
It also helps organisations bring in new energy, perspectives and ideas, making services more inclusive and reflective of the communities they serve.
Supporting more young volunteers
For organisations looking to involve young people, the Introduction to Involving Young Volunteers course on the Elements Training Portal provides practical guidance. Find out more: voda.org.uk/elements
Taking the first step
Volunteering as a young person does not need to start with something big. It can begin with one opportunity, one session, or one conversation.
What matters is having the right support and the confidence to begin.
To explore opportunities or find out more, visit: voda.org.uk/search
