KEY+ Updates

Valerie has been a facilitator of The Key for over 25 years, dedicating her time to supporting young people through the KEY+ Challenge with Gateshead Youth Council. From helping groups like #JellyBeans grow from their very first project to guiding them through major achievements like Gateshead Youth Can, Valerie has witnessed countless transformations in confidence, skills, and leadership. Valerie’s passion lies in seeing young people realise their potential and take pride in their own ideas. In this spotlight, she shares her favourite moments, the impact of her work, and advice for anyone thinking about becoming a KEY+ facilitator.

After Youth Action Unlocked: The Hack brought together over 100 young people to plan and deliver their very own social action projects, we came together again last Thursday at Tyneside Cinema to celebrate their achievements at Youth Action Unlocked: The Showcase. Held during #iwill Week, the event highlighted the real impact these youth-led ideas have made in local schools, neighbourhoods, and communities with young people sharing their achievements, experiences and voices with funders, supporters and decision-makers.

In Gateshead, a group of young people known as The Quacker Ducks turned a bold idea into a powerful project. By creating their own feminist zines, they set out to challenge harmful narratives, spark conversations about equality, and make activism more accessible to young people. From research and design to distribution in local schools and community spaces, they learned to plan, collaborate, and amplify their voices in creative ways.

For the past decade, Melanie from Percy Hedley has been inspiring young people through her work with The Key. As a long-standing KEY+ Facilitator, she’s supported countless youth-led projects - from community toy drives to confidence-building residentials - helping young people unlock their potential, build vital life skills, and make a lasting impact in their communities. In this spotlight, Melanie shares her favourite moments, the transformations she’s witnessed, and why being part of The Key is such a rewarding experience.

What happens when three determined young people turn a simple idea into real change? The Funky Phoenixes started with a small recycling project in their school - and turned it into a borough-wide eco-friendly competition, inspiring multiple schools to take action for the planet.

Read their story to discover how they overcame challenges, built resilience, and learned new skills along the way. 

Friends Together, a group of young people from Sunderland’s SEND 16+ sessions at The Box, completed all three stages of the KEY+ Challenge. Along the way, they built skills in teamwork, confidence and communication while creating inclusive community events – from BBQs and discos to launching their very own silent discos.

Looking to stay connected, grow your skills, and keep making a difference after completing the KEY+ Challenge? This blog shares why joining The Key Collective is the perfect next step. You'll be the first to hear about new opportunities, events, and ways to get involved - keeping your journey with The Key going long after your project ends.

As part of KEY+ Transitions, The Gamer Kings planned their own trip to the Metro Centre, building confidence, independence, and teamwork along the way. From budgeting and navigating busy spaces to trying new activities, the group left proud of their achievements and the friendships they strengthened.

Discover how The Key made a difference in 2024–2025! We empowered 1,635 young people through the KEY+ Challenge to build their skills, confidence, and resilience. Our latest impact report highlights the milestones, insights, and stories that shaped an inspiring year of growth and learning.

We’re delighted to welcome Natalie Marshall to The Key’s Board of Trustees. With extensive financial and strategic expertise, Natalie is passionate about using her skills to support young people across the North East and help drive our mission forward.