KEY+ Stories

The Milkccident, a group of Year 12 Food Science students, used their KEY+ Challenge to experience fine dining in Durham, develop presentation skills and build confidence. From sampling a tasting menu to planning a future school pop-up restaurant, their journey showcases teamwork, growth and real-world learning through food.

This KEY+ group used a heat press and badge maker to create and sell their own merchandise, developing practical skills in budgeting, marketing, teamwork and decision-making. The project not only raised funds for The Bunker but also brought the group together and helped them build new skills.

For over 10 years, The Box has partnered with The Key to deliver the KEY+ Challenge, empowering young people to lead projects that make a real impact. With 64 projects completed and over 250 young people supported, The Box shows the lasting benefits of giving young people responsibility, guidance and opportunities to bring their ideas to life.

Young people at The Bunker are transforming an unused space into a meaningful community mural as part of Stage 2 of the KEY+ Challenge. The artwork represents The Bunker's past, present and future while celebrating the people who make it special. Along the way, the group have developed valuable skills and proved how youth-led activities can strengthen confidence, connection and community.

After nine months, The Key's Youth Advisory Board reflect on what it really means to have a voice. In this blog, young people share their experiences of being listened to, developing confidence and communication skills, and shaping real projects - from social media content to hosting awards and events.

In this Partner Spotlight, we're celebrating Bright Futures and their inspiring work with young women through the KEY+ Challenge. By creating safe, empowering spaces where young women can lead projects, build confidence and develop new skills, Bright Futures are helping them find and use their voices.

Stephen's journey from KEY+ participant to KEY+ facilitator demonstrates the lasting impact of youth-led opportunities. Now supporting other young people in his role as Youth Support Worker, he is helping the next generation build confidence, develop skills and create meaningful change.

Young people from Pennywell turned their lived experience of social isolation into positive action. The Fat Pigeon created a youth-led café that offers a safe, welcoming space for connection, support, and skills development. Read more about their project here!

Youth Action Unlocked brought together young people from across the North East to turn ideas into action, supporting eight youth-led projects that built confidence, developed skills and created meaningful impact in local communities, while celebrating youth voice, collaboration and social action.

The Other Direction, a youth-led group from Newcastle, are tackling vaping and smoking in their community through education, creative activities, and awareness projects. This project is still ongoing, and more updates on their work and impact will be shared soon so keep an eye out!

The Howdon Youth Legends, a group from North Tyneside, took part in Youth Action Unlocked to plan a vibrant community event focused on physical and mental health, community safety, and social connection. The event was not just a day of fun - it was an example of what young people can achieve when given the chance to lead.

The Boro Patrollers organised a vibrant community event celebrating diversity, culture, and inclusion. Through activities in sports, art and social connection, they created an inclusive space for local residents to try new things, meet people and feel part of their community.