Study reveals Warrington Youth Zone significantly boosts young people’s confidence, reduces antisocial behavior, and enhances education.
In 2015, AMION studied youth zones’ impact. They looked at five zones open then. These were in Blackburn, Manchester, and Carlisle. Wigan and Oldham were also included.
The report showed youth zones had a big impact. They improved young peoples’ lives a lot in the communities they served.
AMION researched Warrington Youth Zone after two years. They independently assessed its effect. We were very happy they agreed to do it. Researchers interviewed young people and parents. They also spoke with local businesses. This gave a good view of the Youth Zone’s role.
The study found good results. Eighty-five percent made more friends, and fifty-one percent felt more self-assured. This was because they went to the Youth Zone. Forty-six percent stayed out of trouble, and forty percent knew alcohol, smoking, and drugs were bad. The Youth Zone helped this happen.
Forty percent were less likely to skip school. Forty-four percent worked harder in school. This shows a real positive change. Parents shared their thoughts in interviews, and they spoke about the Youth Zone’s impact, because their kids got a lot out of it.
All parents felt children had more confidence. Kids were also more confident in groups. This is key to helping them grow. Local businesses were supportive of the Youth Zone. Ninety-four percent said it helps young people, and eighty-two percent saw less bad behavior.
Police data showed anti-social behavior fell. Overall, it dropped 46% near the Youth Zone, and certain areas saw even bigger drops.
Some areas needed more focus though. More people needed to know about the Youth Zone. Bullying concerns needed addressing at the Zone. Programs for ages 10–14 could be improved.
AMION will do more research. They will assess the social value of the Zone. This will offer a fuller assessment of how it helps.