The Places To Go, Things To Do Youth Fund has been making a real difference to the lives of children and young people across Devon. And that success was brought to life at a special celebration event held on Saturday 28 March, where councillors, staff, community organisations and young people came together to reflect on just how far the fund has come in its first year.
Since its launch in September 2025, the fund has helped create more opportunities, more safe spaces and more reasons for young people to feel connected to their communities.
Through an initial £160,000 of grant funding, the project has helped 125 local organisations to support 130 projects across the county – from sports and outdoor experiences to arts, wellbeing sessions and youth‑led initiatives – with more than 7,000 young people benefitting from projects supported by the scheme.
Young people have also been central to shaping the fund from the beginning. The fund was set up as part of the response to the Make Your Mark 2025 youth vote, which saw young people call for access to affordable activities and youth-friendly places in local communities. Members of the Devon Youth Council have then played an active role in reviewing applications and influencing decisions, ensuring that the money is directed towards the opportunities young people themselves say they want and need.
Celebrating success
To mark the success of the project, a special celebration event was held at County Hall on Saturday 28 March. The event showcased a range of performances from young people who have taken part in funded projects. A mix of drama, singing and a routine by a local majorettes group offered a glimpse into the confidence, creativity and enjoyment the fund is helping to deliver.
There were two big awards given out on the day. Tavistock Youth Café picked up the prize for Best Youth Feedback, following the strongest feedback from young people across all funded projects, while Jamming Station won the Devon Youth Council Top Choice – the Totnes-based music hub was selected for its particularly impressive blend of inclusivity, accessibility and as a place for young people to learn new skills, express themselves, and make friends.
Jacqui Perks, director at Jamming Station said:
“Knowing that this award has been chosen by the Youth Council, by the young people looking and assessing and saying, ‘It’s Jamming Station’, that means a huge amount to us. Knowing it’s from the young people for the young people is really great.”
Further funding announced
Cllr Cheryl Cottle‑Hunkin opened and closed the celebration, thanking colleagues, partners and the young people involved for their energy and commitment. She also announced that the fund will continue, with a further £160,000 available for new and existing projects.
This renewed support will allow more organisations to grow their offer, develop new activities and ensure young people across Devon continue to benefit from meaningful opportunities close to home.
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin said:
“Today has been absolutely amazing! It’s been incredible to see County Hall buzzing and full of energy, creativity, and talent. Devon’s greatest strength is its people and the communities they build together. By investing in our young people, we’re supporting safer, stronger places and giving children and teenagers the foundations they need for positive futures.
The response to our Places To Go Things To Do Fund has been fantastic. We want to continue to support organisations who are enriching the lives of our young people, so I’m delighted that the fund will continue for another year.”
