Youth Alliance: Children and Young People Network meeting – March 2026

On March the 19^th  we held our first Youth Alliance Children and Young People’s network meeting of 2026. The event was held at the Multi Faith Centre, University of Derby, which was a wonderful setting. We brought together 50 or so different professionals from varying organisations, all with the same goal in enhancing the quality of life for as many children and young people across the city.

Adam Dickens from the University of Derby Chaplaincy, kindly welcomed our attendees to the venue and delivered the housekeeping information, whilst everyone began tucking into the selection of refreshments. Shortly after Helen Britten, Programme Lead for the Youth Alliance, began the meeting introductions and in welcoming our 3 guest speakers.

Presentations from guest speakers

To kick off the meeting, Bob Collis from Titan’s Children Trust provided a brief overview of the impactful work the organisation do to support disadvantaged children and communities across the city.

He highlighted a range of initiatives, including the distribution of hampers to local schools, organisations and workers. As well this they give as many disadvantaged children as possible access to sports, activities, and even holiday experiences.

Find out more here: https://www.titantrust.org.uk/

Paco Box from Trinity Warriors opened his presentation with a powerful video illustrating how dance has transformed his life and the lives of many others.

He followed with a heartfelt tribute to founder Leon Heywood, expressing deep gratitude for his vision and lasting impact. Paco’s words highlighted not only Leon’s role in creating Trinity Warriors, but also the strong sense of community and positive change that continues to grow from his legacy.

To conclude the guest speaker presentations, Zack Yates from Derby County Community Trust shared key findings from their positive masculinity workshops delivered to secondary school boys, aimed at reducing misogynistic attitudes and behaviours.

 The programme has proven highly successful, with next steps focused on expanding this work through partnerships and further research.

Helen Britten closed the meeting with Community Action updates and announcements. Nominations are now open for the 2026 Voluntary Sector Awards, with details on how to apply shared during the session.

Please visit this page for more information: https://www.communityactionderby.org.uk/whats-on/latest-news/derby-voluntary-sector-awards-2026-nominations-are-now-open 

The Volunteer Centre at Community Action Derby is also encouraging organisations to connect and share available volunteering opportunities, particularly for those under 18. These opportunities can then be promoted through their volunteering platform, social media,

and an updated local volunteering booklet. Those interested in connecting should contact: volunteer@communityactionderby.org.uk

Networking

For the remainder of the meeting, professionals and organisations had the opportunity to network, share resources and enjoy refreshments before the event concluded. This dedicated networking time was widely valued by attendees, helping to strengthen partnerships across Derby in support of children and young people.

Thank you to everyone who attended, to our guest speakers and to the Multi Faith Centre for providing an excellent venue.

Next steps..

Our next Youth Alliance Children and Young People’s network meeting will take place on the 18^th June 2026. Further details to come at a later date, we hope to see you there!

For more information about the Youth Alliance Children and Young People’s Network, or to get involved, please visit: Derby Youth Alliance – CYPN

@DerbyYouthAlliance on Facebook and Instagram.