SUPPORT US
Why Support Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone?
At Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, we are proud to provide free access to our venues and services for every young person. Every visit includes a free, hot, nutritious meal for all members.
Through our detached and outreach provision, we also distribute healthy snacks and drinks — including hot drinks during winter — ensuring that wherever we meet young people, we support both their wellbeing and dignity.
But delivering this level of provision, 52 weeks a year, comes at a significant cost.
The £2.6 Million Challenge
It costs £2.6 million every year to run Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone and meet growing demand.
- 50% is raised through the local business community
- The remaining 50% comes from Blackburn with Darwen Council, grant funders and fundraising events
With the valued support of over 80 business leaders, we are able to meet our annual running costs of over £2.5 million — but this funding must be secured year after year.
Without continued investment, free membership, free entry and free meals for over 5,000 young people would not be possible.
Growing Demand, Record Reach
This year alone:
- 5,614 registered members – the highest in our history
- 1,304 young people attend on average each week
- Open 52 weeks a year
- Operating across two sites plus detached and outreach provision
Access to our services continues to grow as more families rely on us not just for activities — but for stability, nourishment and trusted support.