Articles

Investment Boost for Youth Mental Health and Community Safety in Gedling

Date Posted: 9:58 AM on Fri, 10 October 2025

A mental health partnership project launched in 2024 has led to new investment in youth-focused activities in Gedling as a result of funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner’s (PCC) Situational Crime Prevention Fund, working alongside Gedling Borough Council.

Local social enterprise Positively Empowered Kids CIC received support through the fund, which allocates £67,500 over two years to each local authority in Nottinghamshire for targeted community safety initiatives.

Originally designed to support the mental wellbeing of young people, the project has evolved to help address anti-social behaviour in the Arnold area. Through engagement activities, it empowers young people to make positive and safer choices.

The funding will enable Positively Empowered Kids CIC to collaborate with a wide range of partners and expand on the success of the 2024 pilot. The initiative, known as ‘Next Move’, invites local young people to co-design activities that reflect their interests and needs which can boost confidence, promote health and wellbeing, and offer safe alternatives to anti-social behaviour.

Jackie Wilson, Director of Positively Empowered Kids CIC, said:

“I’m so proud that we can carry on this journey with young people and partners in the local community. This funding isn’t just money – it’s a message that their voices matter. We can now work alongside them to shape activities that inspire confidence, support wellbeing and give them positive choices for the future.”

Councillor Henry Wheeler, Portfolio Holder for Lifestyles, Health & Wellbeing, said:

“Supporting the mental wellbeing of our young people is vital. This project gives them a voice in shaping the activities they take part in, empowering them to make decisions that positively impact their mental health and overall wellbeing.”

Councillor Kathryn Fox, Portfolio Holder for Life Chances & Vulnerability, emphasised the importance of partnership working:

“Collaborative working is key if we want to make a bigger difference for children and young people. Since 2024, a range of partners have come together to listen to young people and understand their experiences and needs. This has led to a better alignment of resources and support for young people in Gedling.“

 

Find out more about Next Move on Instagram @next_move_youth 

For local information and advice on mental health, please visit the NottAlone website or our mental health support webpage.