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A Darlington shopping centre manager has launched a new youth-led initiative to support teenagers aged 14 and over during the school holidays.
Future Voices is a drop-in programme offering practical advice, work experience, and personal guidance.
It takes place every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm at the Cornmill Shopping Centre.
Playing games
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The scheme, set up by centre manager Zoe France, was inspired by the journey of Kiera Hinds, a teenager who had previously been excluded from the centre for anti-social behaviour.
Kiera said: "I wasn’t always the politest visitor to Cornmill and when my behaviour was too much, they issued me an exclusion notice for a year.
"I didn’t believe it at first so I continued to cause a nuisance, but the security team and local PSCO enforced it.
A team shot
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"After this, I was issued an acceptable behaviour agreement which made me realise I needed to change.
"I formally apologised to all involved and had conversations with Zoe and Wayne about my behaviour.
"The Cornmill team were incredibly accepting and gave me multiple opportunities to change.
"As part of these conversations, we discussed bringing future voices to life, as I had noticed that many other teenagers were struggling in the same way I was.
William, centre
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"Future Voices has provided us with a place to go, be seen, and be heard.
"We’ve had four sessions so far and it’s truly benefited the centre; we’ve spoken to people who we would’ve never thought would join in with this initiative.
"All of the staff at Cornmill have had a huge impact on my life, and it wasn’t for them giving me another chance; I don’t know where I would have ended up.
"For this, I’m forever grateful, and hope that I can support other young people who are in the same position as me."
Kiera worked with the Cornmill team and partners, eventually securing a work trial at the Faking it store.
This led to a permanent role, helping her build confidence and new skills.
Her transformation inspired Ms France, security manager Wayne Alp, and Youth Justice representative Kimberley Booth to create Future Voices.
Since launching in early July, the group has supported several young people in writing their first CVs, finding work experience, and exploring career options.
Participants have also offered feedback on how organisations can better engage with youth and have taken part in social activities and games.
Mr Alp has already provided work experience placements to a few attendees to give them insight into the responsibilities of a security manager.
The scheme’s reach extends beyond the shopping centre, encouraging improved behaviour throughout Darlington.
The Dolphin Centre has expressed interest in offering rewards if a reduction in anti-social behaviour is observed, including discounted bowling and a pool party.
One participant, who had previously struggled with anti-social behaviour, has begun developing a photography project with the group.
The project will highlight Darlington’s heritage and architecture, with plans to display his work in Cornmill Shopping Centre later this year.
The group is also exploring volunteering, community projects, and a town-centre litter pick later in the summer.
Ms France said: "Future Voices was created because we recognised that many young people simply need someone to listen to them, encourage and help them see the opportunities available to them.
"Kiera’s journey showed us the incredible impact that positive conversations and a little support can have.
"The transformation we’ve seen in just a few weeks has been genuinely inspiring.
"Whether it’s helping someone write their first CV, securing work experience or building their confidence.
"Future Voices gives young people a platform to be heard and inspires them to shape the future of Darlington.
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"We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved so far, and we are excited to see where the initiative goes next."
The sessions are free and open to anyone aged 14 and over.
Cornmill Shopping Centre hopes the programme will continue to grow and encourage greater involvement from businesses and organisations across Darlington.
For more information about the centre, its events, and its community work, visit www.cornmillcentre.co.uk.