2025-03-31-annual-report - Corpus Christi Youth Centre

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Annual Report

2025/26

Annual Report.

ASPIRE- ACHIEVE - SUCCEED

170

Young people registered 2025/26

55+

Average nightly attendance

www.corpuschristiyouthcentre@outlook.com

Annual Report

Introduction

Corpus Christi Youth Centre was founded in 1971 by local residents in response to the increasing needs of young people within the community. The centre initially operated from a former school hall before relocating to its current premises in 1975. As a church-based registered charity, the centre operates through the combined efforts of a fulltime staff member, additional support staff, and a committed team of volunteers who contribute to the delivery of services and programmes.

Regular monthly staff meetings are held to review activities delivered during the previous period and to plan forthcoming programmes. The centre is supported by both a Management Committee and a Young People’s Committee, ensuring effective governance while also providing young people with an active role in shaping services and decision-making processes.

An annual evaluation process is undertaken to assess performance and identify future priorities. Key result areas are established each year to guide programme development and operational planning.

The centre works collaboratively with a range of partner organisations to ensure the delivery of high-quality youth services. These partnerships support the centre’s aim of providing meaningful, inclusive, and impactful opportunities for young people. Active participation is encouraged across all aspects of centre life, promoting cooperation between young people, staff, volunteers, and the wider community.

The centre continues to invest in staff development through participation in external programmes, professional courses, and training initiatives. The staff development plan remains effective, with additional in-house training sessions scheduled to further strengthen staff skills and organisational capacity.

Through its continued development and community partnerships, Corpus Christi Youth Centre remains committed to supporting young people and responding to the evolving needs of the community it serves.

Under the leadership of Senior Youth Worker Annemarie Stone, supported by staff and volunteers, Corpus Christi Youth Centre has delivered a strong year of youth services. Positive feedback from young people, parents, management committee members, and community partners reflects the impact of the centre’s work, alongside increased parental involvement in activities and programmes.

The centre continues to provide a safe, welcoming environment where young people feel supported and included. Programmes focus on building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging while promoting inclusivity and addressing challenges linked to social exclusion.

Looking ahead, the centre remains committed to supporting young people in developing the skills and confidence needed for adult life. Ongoing staff training and professional development will continue to strengthen programme delivery as the organisation builds on this year’s progress.

Our Core Priorities

Addressing Low Educational Achievement

Supporting young people to improve educational attainment remained a key priority throughout the year. We delivered structured homework support sessions twice weekly for pupils in Key Stage 2, alongside one-to-one coursework support for young people across Key Stages 3 and 4.

Approximately 50 young people availed of homework and coursework support during the year. Sessions provided a calm, structured and supportive environment where young people could complete schoolwork, build confidence and develop independent study skills. Many participants actively sought additional assistance, demonstrating increased engagement and ownership of their learning.

Our work complemented formal education by strengthening links between the voluntary youth sector and local schools. The Centre also provided space for curricular and extra-curricular school activities, further enhancing collaborative working and broadening learning opportunities.

In addition:

Two accredited training programmes were delivered for young people aged 15+, engaging approximately 30 participants, with 80% successfully completing and achieving recognised outcomes.

A minimum of 10 personal and social development programmes were facilitated across all age ranges, engaging approximately 80 young people, with 80% achieving intended outcomes.

Young people demonstrated progression in personal responsibility, resilience and commitment to self-directed learning.

Participants increased their qualifications base, improving future progression and employability prospects.

Impact was measured through robust Quality Assurance processes including baseline and end-line assessments, participant and staff evaluations, daily reporting forms and end-of-project reviews. Attendance registers, homework monitoring sheets and membership records provided quantitative evidence of engagement, while certificates awarded and presentation events celebrated achievement. Feedback from parents and stakeholders further confirmed positive outcomes.

Moderation visits conducted by the EA Senior Youth Officer provided additional external verification of standards and impact.

Homework and coursework support operated in line with the school calendar, while accredited and nonaccredited programmes were delivered continuously throughout the Youth Centre year.

Through this sustained approach, the Youth Centre continues to play a significant role in narrowing educational gaps, raising aspirations and supporting young people to achieve their full potential.

Our Core Priorities Continued…

Community Relations, Equality and Diversity in Education (2023)

During 2025–2026, the Youth Centre actively embedded the Community Relations, Equality and Diversity in Education Policy (2023) across all strands of our provision, ensuring that equality, inclusion and good relations were not standalone themes but integral to everyday youth work practice.

Through structured programmes, group work sessions and informal education approaches, young people engaged in meaningful exploration of identity, diversity, cultural understanding, mutual respect and shared society. These themes were consistently reinforced across developmental programmes, accredited training and partnership initiatives.

As a result:

Young people demonstrated increased confidence in discussing sensitive and complex issues. There was measurable progression in knowledge and understanding of equality and diversity themes, evidenced through baseline and end-line evaluations.

Participants showed improved attitudes towards difference and greater respect within group settings.

The Youth Centre environment continued to reflect a culture of inclusion, safety and belonging for all young people.

Staff reinforced key policy principles through modelling inclusive behaviours and facilitating respectful dialogue. Monitoring documentation and programme evaluations confirmed clear progression in awareness, empathy and interpersonal skills among participants.

The implementation of this policy remains a core and ongoing commitment of the Youth Centre, underpinning our vision of a welcoming, inclusive and equitable space for all.

Our Core Priorities Continued…

Community Relations, Equality and Diversity in Education (2023)

As a result:

Participants showed improved attitudes towards difference and greater respect within group settings. The Youth Centre environment continued to reflect a culture of inclusion, safety and belonging for all young people.

This work has contributed to strengthening community cohesion at a local level and supporting young people to develop the values, skills and confidence required to participate positively in a diverse society. The implementation of this policy remains a core and ongoing commitment of the Youth Centre, underpinning our vision of a welcoming, inclusive and equitable space for all.

Our Core Priorities Continued…

I mproving Social Mobility and Raising Aspirations

Improving social mobility and raising the aspirations of young people remained a central priority throughout the year. Our work focused on equipping young people with the confidence, skills and qualifications required to broaden their life opportunities and realise their potential.

A minimum of four structured developmental programmes were delivered across various age ranges, engaging approximately 48 young people. These programmes were specifically designed to build confidence, enhance self-worth and raise personal ambitions. As a result, participants demonstrated increased belief in their abilities, improved communication skills and greater willingness to step beyond their comfort zones to embrace new challenges.

Two accredited training programmes were also delivered for young people aged 15+, engaging approximately 30 participants. With an 80% completion rate, young people achieved recognised qualifications which strengthened their CVs and improved progression opportunities into further education, training or employment.

In addition to group-based work, approximately 50 young people accessed one-to-one support and guidance throughout the year. This personalised intervention supported those presenting with prevalent issues or barriers to progression, providing practical advice, emotional support and structured goal-setting. Many young people showed increased self-efficacy, resilience and motivation as a direct result of this targeted engagement.

Residential experiences were offered to broaden horizons and expose young people to new environments, peer groups and challenges. These experiences played a significant role in developing independence, teamwork and aspiration.

Impact was measured through robust Quality Assurance processes, including baseline and end-line assessments, participant and staff evaluations, daily reporting forms and end-of-project reviews. Attendance records, certificates awarded and presentation events provided additional evidence of achievement, while oneto-one recording sheets ensured individual progress was monitored. Feedback from parents and stakeholders further confirmed positive change in confidence, ambition and engagement.

Moderation conducted by the EA Senior Youth Officer provided external validation of standards and impact.

Through sustained programme delivery and personalised support, the Youth Centre continues to empower young people to raise their aspirations, increase their qualifications base and actively pursue pathways that enhance their long-term social mobility.

Our Core Priorities Continued…

Creating Greater Access to Provision

Ensuring that young people have meaningful access to safe, supportive and engaging youth provision remained a key priority throughout the year. The Youth Centre continued to extend its accessibility in response to identified community need, particularly at times when young people are most vulnerable to isolation, risk-taking behaviours or lack of structured activity.

The Centre operated late-night opening until 12.00am on Friday evenings across 48 weeks of the year, providing a safe and supervised environment at a key time identified by young people, parents and the wider community. This provision offered a positive alternative to street-based activity and contributed to increased feelings of safety and wellbeing among participants.

Our afterschool programme operated two afternoons per week (3.00pm–5.00pm) across approximately 40 weeks of the school year. This created structured, supportive engagement at the end of the school day, encouraging consistent participation and strengthening relationships between young people and staff. Facilities were also made available to Alternative Education Projects and local schools for both curricular and extra-curricular activity. This created important pathways for young people who may not otherwise engage with youth provision, allowing them to become familiar with the Centre in a supported context.

Extended seasonal programmes, including summer and Halloween schemes, further enhanced access during holiday periods when structured activity can be limited. These additional opening periods supported increased engagement, positive peer interaction, fun and enjoyment, while continuing to provide a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment.

As a result of this sustained accessibility:

Participation levels increased across programmes and projects.
Young people accessed provision at key times identified by themselves and the wider community.
Families reported greater peace of mind knowing their children were in a safe environment at weekends and evenings.
New participants were introduced to the Youth Centre through school and partner engagement.
Young people developed enhanced social skills, stronger peer relationships and improved confidence.

Impact was monitored through attendance registers, membership records and programme participation data. Feedback from parents and stakeholders reinforced the value of extended and late-night provision. Moderation conducted by the Area Youth Officer provided external validation of delivery standards and compliance. Late-night and weekend opening was delivered consistently throughout the year, with afterschool provision operating across the school calendar and extended seasonal programmes delivered during holiday periods. Through maintaining flexible and responsive access arrangements, the Youth Centre continues to remove barriers to participation and ensure that young people can access high-quality youth work when they need it most.

Our Core Priorities Continued…

Enhancing Employability and Training

Enhancing employability and preparing young people for the world of work remained a central strand of provision throughout the year. Our approach combined accredited training, leadership development and targeted support for those at risk of disengagement from education, employment or training.

Two accredited training programmes were delivered for young people aged 15+, engaging approximately 30 participants, with an 80% completion rate. Young people achieved nationally recognised qualifications that enhanced their CVs, strengthened progression pathways and increased access to further training and employment opportunities.

The Young Leaders Project engaged 10 young people in structured leadership development, equipping them with skills in communication, responsibility, teamwork and decision-making. Participants gained practical experience supporting programme delivery and acting as positive role models within the Centre.

Senior and Junior Members Committees, involving approximately 20 young people, provided structured participation and governance opportunities. Participants received targeted training in areas such as leadership, accountability, event planning and representation. Through this engagement, young people developed confidence in expressing views, contributing to decision-making and understanding organisational responsibility. A target of 80% completion was achieved for focused committee training.

Programmes also specifically targeted young people not in education, employment or training (NEET), providing structured support to build motivation, resilience and employability skills. Participants developed practical job-readiness skills including teamwork, communication, time management and problem-solving, enabling them to make informed choices about their futures.

In addition, 10 staff members completed professional development training, strengthening the overall capacity of the organisation to deliver high-quality, employment-focused youth work.

As a result of this combined approach:

Young people increased their knowledge and understanding of working life. Participants developed transferable skills relevant to the labour market. Young people demonstrated increased confidence, motivation and ambition.

Those at risk of disengagement were supported to re-engage in structured learning and progression pathways.

Impact was measured through robust Quality Assurance processes, including baseline and end-line assessments, participant and staff evaluations, daily reporting forms and end-of-project reviews. Certificates awarded, attendance records and membership data provided quantitative evidence of engagement, while feedback from parents and stakeholders reinforced the value of the provision. Moderation conducted by the EA Youth Officer provided external validation of standards and outcomes.

Accredited training programmes, the Young Leaders Project and Member Committee structures operated throughout the Centre year. Staff development opportunities were delivered between April–June 2025 and September 2025–March 2026.

Through sustained investment in leadership, accreditation and targeted support, the Youth Centre continues to enhance young people’s employability, strengthen life skills and contribute positively to long-term social mobility.

Our Core Priorities Continued…

Promoting Environmental Awareness

Promoting environmental responsibility and sustainability remained an important focus throughout the year. Through structured programmes, practical initiatives and outdoor experiences, young people were encouraged to take active ownership of their local environment and develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues.

A series of community clean-up initiatives were delivered as part of the “Adopt a Spot” project, with extensive clean-ups facilitated throughout the year. A minimum of 12 young people participated in each session, committing at least two hours per initiative. These activities empowered young people to take a proactive role in addressing litter, graffiti and vandalism within their community. Participants demonstrated increased pride in their local area and a stronger sense of civic responsibility.

The Centre also engaged with the Blackmountain Wildlife Initiatives, providing opportunities for young people to explore biodiversity, wildlife conservation and environmental regeneration in their immediate surroundings. Through wildlife tours and educational activities in their local park and mountain areas, participants gained first-hand knowledge of ecosystems, plant life and sustainable practices.

A targeted gardening project engaged 10 young people, with 80% completing the initiative and achieving identified outcomes. Participants learned practical horticultural skills, developed an understanding of plant care and sustainability, and created flowerpots and baskets that enhanced the appearance of the Centre and surrounding community.

Residential experiences further broadened environmental awareness, with a minimum of two rural residential opportunities delivered during the year, engaging approximately 30 young people. These experiences allowed participants to encounter countryside and rural environments outside of Belfast, challenging perceptions, expanding horizons and fostering appreciation for diverse landscapes.

As a result of this collective approach:

Young people developed stronger environmental awareness and practical sustainability skills. Participants demonstrated increased responsibility for the condition and regeneration of their community. Attitudes towards littering, vandalism and environmental neglect showed positive change. Young people built teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills through hands-on activity.

Impact was measured through Quality Assurance processes including baseline and end-line assessments, participant and staff evaluations, daily reporting forms and end-of-project reviews. Attendance records, certificates awarded and presentation events provided quantitative evidence of engagement. Feedback from parents and stakeholders reinforced the positive behavioural changes observed. Moderation conducted by the EA Senior Youth Officer provided external validation of standards and delivery.

Residential opportunities were offered throughout the Centre year, and community clean-ups were facilitated consistently as part of ongoing environmental engagement.

Through sustained environmental programming, the Youth Centre continues to nurture responsible, community-minded young people who understand their role in protecting and improving the world around them.

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Our Core Priorities Continued…

Building Community Awareness and Active Participation

Empowering young people to play an active role in decision-making and community development remained central to our work throughout the year. We continued to strengthen participatory structures that ensure young people are not only consulted, but are intrinsic to the governance and direction of the Youth Centre.

The Senior and Junior Members’ Committees each engaged approximately 10–12 young people, meeting regularly throughout the year. The Senior Members’ Council committed to a minimum of 1–2 hours per month for structured meetings, providing a formal platform for discussion, planning and shared decision-making. Through this involvement, young people developed skills in leadership, accountability, event planning and effective management.

Two young people acted as representatives on the Youth Centre’s Management Committee, participating in joint decision-making processes and contributing to discussions that shape the strategic direction of the organisation. Their involvement strengthened transparency, enhanced youth voice and ensured that governance structures reflected the lived experience of members.

The Young Leaders Project engaged 12 young people, each committing a minimum of three hours per week to supporting staff in programme delivery for younger members. This initiative developed practical leadership skills, responsibility, teamwork and communication, while fostering a strong culture of service to others. Young people also participated in programmes designed to increase political and civic awareness, enhancing their understanding of democratic processes, community representation and informed decision-making. These opportunities supported the development of confidence, critical thinking and active citizenship.

As a result:

Young people strengthened their role as key contributors to the development of the Youth Centre. Youth voice became further embedded within governance and operational structures.
Participants demonstrated increased confidence in expressing views and taking responsibility. Leadership, organisational and interpersonal skills improved measurably.
Young people engaged in service-focused initiatives that benefited the wider community.

Impact was monitored through comprehensive Quality Assurance processes, including baseline and end-line assessments, participant and staff evaluations, daily reporting forms and end-of-project reviews. Attendance records, membership data and certificates awarded provided quantitative evidence of engagement. Feedback from parents and stakeholders confirmed positive development in confidence, maturity and responsibility.

Moderation conducted by the EA Senior Youth Officer provided external validation of standards and delivery. The Senior and Junior Members’ Committees, Management Committee representation and Young Leaders Project operated continuously throughout the Centre year.

Through sustained commitment to participation and shared leadership, the Youth Centre continues to nurture confident, capable and community-minded young people who actively shape both their organisation and their wider community.

Operational Framework at Corpus Christi Youth Centre

Throughout the year, Corpus Christi Youth Centre has continued to strengthen the quality and impact of its services through structured evaluation, responsive planning, and strong governance practices. Our work remains guided by the EA Quality Assurance Framework, supporting a culture of accountability, reflection, and continuous improvement across all areas of delivery.

A key priority has been ensuring young people remain at the heart of decision-making. Regular feedback opportunities, youth forums, and programme reviews allow participants to influence activities, shape future planning, and contribute to how services evolve. Both participation data and personal feedback are used to measure outcomes and demonstrate the value of our youth work within the community.

To sustain high standards and support ongoing improvement, the Centre has focused on several core areas:

• Regular Review of Policies and Procedures – Policies and operational practices are reviewed and updated to ensure they remain effective, safe, and responsive to the needs of young people and the community.

• Strong Financial Governance – Financial performance and expenditure are monitored closely, with clear reporting structures enabling transparency and responsible management throughout the year.

• Inclusive Programme Planning – Programmes are developed and reviewed in partnership with young people, encouraging ownership and ensuring activities remain relevant, engaging, and beneficial.

• Workforce Development – Staff and volunteers continue to access professional development opportunities, ensuring best practice in youth work delivery and safeguarding standards.

Through these approaches, the Centre continues not only to enhance service quality but also to empower young people to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and play an active role in their communities and future pathways.

Annual Report

Corpus Christi Youth Centre

Fostering Equality, Inclusion, and Shared Understanding

During the past year, Corpus Christi Youth Centre has continued to strengthen its commitment to promoting Community Relations, Equality, and Diversity across all aspects of youth provision. These principles remain central to our work and are embedded within programme planning, group work, and everyday engagement with young people, ensuring our Centre remains a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all.

A key focus this year has been supporting young people to better understand difference, respect diverse identities and experiences, and recognise the importance of inclusion within their own communities. Through structured discussions, workshops, and shared activities, young people have been encouraged to explore topics such as identity, belonging, cultural understanding, and equality in a safe and supportive setting. These opportunities allow participants to express their views, challenge assumptions, and develop empathy and respect for others.

Our partnership work within the local community continues to play an important role in delivering these outcomes. Collaborative initiatives with community organisations have provided young people with opportunities to engage in cross-community dialogue and shared experiences, helping to build confidence and reduce barriers between communities. Activities have focused on creating positive shared spaces, encouraging cooperation, and highlighting the benefits of working together across different backgrounds.

Throughout the year, young people have also taken part in projects and events that promote inclusion and positive community relationships. These initiatives have enabled participants to examine stereotypes, challenge misinformation, and gain a broader understanding of social and cultural diversity. By supporting young people to develop informed and respectful perspectives, we aim to empower them to contribute positively within their schools, communities, and wider society.

Staff and volunteers continue to prioritise inclusive practice, ensuring programmes remain accessible and responsive to the needs of all young people. Ongoing reflection and evaluation allow us to adapt delivery methods to ensure equality of opportunity and participation remains at the forefront of our work.

By embedding these values throughout our programmes, Corpus Christi Youth Centre continues to support young people in developing the confidence, awareness, and social responsibility needed to build stronger, more inclusive communities now and into the future.

Annual Report

Corpus Christi Youth Centre

Youth Needs Assessment

Each year, Corpus Christi Youth Centre hosts a dedicated consultation and evaluation event designed to bring together young people, parents, key stakeholders and community representatives to reflect on our service delivery and its impact over the previous twelve months.

This gathering provides a structured and meaningful platform for open dialogue, allowing participants to share their views on the emerging needs of the community and its young people, and to assess whether our provision continues to respond effectively to those needs. Importantly, it reinforces our commitment to transparency, accountability and participatory practice.

The event serves not only as a celebration of achievements, but also as a critical review mechanism that strengthens continuous improvement. Through honest reflection on both successes and challenges, we are able to refine our approach and ensure our programmes remain responsive, relevant and impactful.

Key areas explored during the evaluation included:

Programme Delivery – Reviewing the breadth and quality of activities and initiatives to ensure they meet the expressed and emerging needs of young people. Feedback gathered informs future programme design and curriculum planning.
Leadership and Team Performance – Assessing the effectiveness of the senior management team, part-time staff and volunteers in delivering high-quality youth work. This includes reviewing communication, consistency, safeguarding practice and overall participant experience.
Governance and Oversight – Evaluating the role of the Management Committee in providing strategic guidance, accountability and support to ensure strong governance and sustainability.

The insights gathered during this event directly inform strategic planning for the year ahead. Recommendations are incorporated into programme development, workforce planning and governance review processes.

By embedding consultation into our annual cycle, the Youth Centre ensures that young people’s voices remain central to decision-making and that our services continue to evolve in line with the changing needs of the wider community.

Youth Needs Assessment

Session 1: Programme and Operations Review

This session focused on reviewing the overall effectiveness of programmes delivered throughout the year. Participants assessed:

The quality, relevance and accessibility of activities offered.
The leadership and management of the Centre.
The contribution and performance of senior staff, part-time workers and volunteers.
Governance structures, including the effectiveness of both the Management Committee and Members’ Committees.

This review reinforced areas of strong performance while identifying opportunities to strengthen communication, participation and operational delivery.

Session 2: Measuring Impact

This session centred on evaluating tangible outcomes and personal development achieved over the year.

Participants:

Reflected on individual achievements and milestones.
Considered the wider impact of the Centre’s work on young people, families and the broader community.
Identified areas where outcomes could be strengthened or better evidenced.

Discussion highlighted clear progression in confidence, qualifications, leadership skills and community engagement among participants.

Youth Needs Assessment

Session 3: Community Needs Analysis

This session explored the evolving needs of young people and the wider community.

Key discussions focused on:

Emerging social, educational and economic challenges.
Barriers facing young people locally.
The added value provided by Corpus Christi Youth Centre in addressing these challenges.

Participants recognised the Centre as a safe, supportive and responsive space that plays a critical role within the community infrastructure.

Session 4: Prioritising Key Issues

The final session translated reflection into action.

Participants:

Identified the most pressing concerns arising from earlier discussions.
Agreed priority areas for future focus.
Contributed ideas for strengthening service delivery and expanding impact.

The outcomes of this session will directly inform strategic planning, programme development and governance review for the coming year.

Through this structured, participatory process, Corpus Christi Youth Centre continues to demonstrate its commitment to accountability, continuous improvement and meaningful youth participation in shaping the future direction of the organisation.

Programmes and Projects

Corpus Christi Youth Centre provides programmes and activities for young people of all backgrounds and abilities, supporting their personal, social, and educational development.

Our services are open to young people up to age 25, offering inclusive opportunities to learn new skills and, where possible, gain recognised qualifications.

We encourage parents and guardians to play an active role in supporting their child’s development, while our annual programme priorities are shaped by the needs of local young people within the resources available.

During the year, young people participated in a wide range of programmes and activities, including:

Internet Safety Programme
Senior Fitness Froject
Horticulture Programme
Choices Programme
Healthy Life Style Choices
Social Action Projects x 2
Cooking Programme
Environmental Awareness Project
Walk and Talk Programme
Girls Growing Up
Christmas Bazaar
DASH (Drugs, Alcohol & Sexual Health) Project
Anti-Bullying Project
Life Skills Programme
Body Image Programme
International Women's Day Project
Junior members Committee
Senior Members Committee
Girls Nail Course
Boys Barbering Course
Not Just for Boys Women's Tec (Girls joinery)
Sign Language Course TBUC
Gender Awareness Programme
Driving Lessons
Safer Community Project
Intergenerational Project
Single Identity Project
Risk Taking Behaviours Project
Afterschool's Project
Junior Mental Health (Partnered with Action Mental Health) Playful Minds Project (Playboard NI)

Residentials

Residentials 2025/26:

East Coast Adventure Centre x2
Carlingford Adventure Centre x2
Derry x1 Todds Leap (Day Trips)

Staff and Young People Personal and Social Development:

Emergency First Aid
Safeguarding
Neurodiversity Autism Training
Not Just For Boys (Adult Joinery Workshops)

We delivered a range of different programmes as well as being successful in the delivery of facilitating and contributing to 4 GCSE programmes and homework support classes. We offered a successful after schools programme twice a week.

Partnerships and Organisations

Corpus Christi Youth Centre benefits from the dedication and support of many individuals and organisations who contribute to the delivery, development, and management of our services. Working together, these partnerships help create positive and lasting change in the lives of young people.

By collaborating with a range of partner organisations, we continue to strengthen and enhance the quality of provision available, ensuring young people receive the support and opportunities they deserve.

Black Mountain Action group
St Louise’s Comprehensive College
Holy Trinity Youth Centre
Matt Talbot Youth Centre
St Teresa’s Youth Centre
Newhill Youth and Community
Belfast City Council
Bunscoil An Sliabh Dubh
Action Ability
East Coast Adventure Centre
Carlingford Adventure Centre
Feile an Phobail
Belfast Interface Project
Ardoyne Youth Enterprise
New Start
Youth Work Alliance
Youth Action
Big Lottery Fund
Boys and Girls Club
St Gerard’s Special Education School
Education Authority

CCYC Stastics

We had 170 registered members

94 Female Members
76 Male Members

Average attendance equated to 55plus

We completed 5 different residential
80 young people took part in overnight trips
We have recruited some new volunteers from our membership base and staff members
We delivered 40 different programmes
We were successful in the delivery of facilitating programmes of G.C.S.E. tutoring, CV writing and homework support

We offered a successful after schools’ programme twice a week

Our Centre operates to a system of monthly and yearly unit delivery plans

Annual Report

Corpus Christi Youth Centre

Eamon, 16

The youth club gives me somewhere positive to spend time after school, and I’ve made new friends through the activities.

Rochaidh, 10

The centre gives us chances to take part in courses and activities that help build skills for the future, and the trips away are always a highlight where we make great memories together.

Cora, 14

I enjoy coming here because there’s always something different to do and everyone makes you feel welcome.

Shane, 11

The youth workers are really supportive and easy to talk to, and they always help if someone needs advice or support.

Caden, 15

Being at the centre keeps us busy and gives us somewhere safe to hang out instead of being on the streets.

Lily, 10

I come to the club a lot because it’s fun and I love spending time with my friends doing different activities.

Teegan, 12

I like learning new things, especially when we do baking or art sessions together.

Jack, 11

My favourite thing is playing games and taking part in competitions with my friends.

Mia, 10

I really like the parties and special events because we get to dance and have lots of fun together.

Zara, 9

Arts and crafts are my favourite because we get to make lots of cool things and sometimes learn new skills from visitors who come in.

Sean, 14

The summer programme is great because there are loads of activities and trips, so there’s always something fun to do during the holidays.

Finn, 8

Adam, 9

The trips are the best part, especially when we go climbing, swimming, or try new activities with everyone.

I like coming to the youth club because there’s always something happening, and it’s a good place to meet friends and try new activities after school.

Planning for the Future…

Key areas explored during the evaluation included:

Programme Delivery – Reviewing the breadth and quality of activities and initiatives to ensure they meet the expressed and emerging needs of young people. Feedback gathered informs future programme design and curriculum planning.

Leadership and Team Performance – Assessing the effectiveness of the senior management team, part-time staff and volunteers in delivering high-quality youth work. This includes reviewing communication, consistency, safeguarding practice and overall participant experience.

Governance and Oversight – Evaluating the role of the Management Committee in providing strategic guidance, accountability and support to ensure strong governance and sustainability. The insights gathered during this event directly inform strategic planning for the year ahead. Recommendations are incorporated into programme development, workforce planning and governance review processes.

Planning for the Future…

• Focus on the development of life skills that will equip young people for future challenges, whether in education, employment, or personal growth.

• Continue to evaluate the impact of our services, using feedback from young people, staff, and stakeholders to make informed improvements.

• Strengthen our commitment to diversity and equality by ensuring our services are accessible and inclusive for all, regardless of background or circumstance.

• Invest in new initiatives and technologies that enhance our ability to reach and support young people, both in person and virtually.

By following these principles, we aim to create a youth centre that is not only responsive to the needs of the young people we serve but also an active contributor to the wider community.

Annual Report

Corpus Christi Youth Centre

Senior Youth Workers Report

Over the past year, youth services across Northern Ireland have continued to face increasing demands as young people navigate a complex range of social and economic challenges. Many young people are dealing with pressures linked to mental health, community safety concerns, educational disruption, and uncertainty around future opportunities. These challenges are often most visible in communities experiencing long-term economic disadvantage, where access to resources and opportunities can be limited.

Within our own community, many families continue to experience financial pressures that impact young people’s ability to fully participate in education, training, and social activities. Limited access to safe recreational spaces, learning supports, and digital resources can further widen gaps in opportunity and confidence for those already facing disadvantage.

In response, Corpus Christi Youth Centre has worked to ensure that young people continue to have access to safe spaces, supportive relationships, and practical opportunities that help reduce these barriers. Throughout the year, the Centre has provided access to learning supports, digital equipment, and structured programmes designed to build skills, confidence, and resilience. Ensuring young people can access technology and develop digital skills remains an important part of preparing them for education and employment pathways.

However, we recognise that supporting young people requires more than facilities or equipment alone. Continued investment in youth work provision, staff development, and outreach services remains essential to ensure support reaches those who may not otherwise engage. Exploring flexible approaches, including outreach and community-based engagement, allows us to meet young people where they are and respond to changing needs.

To guide future planning, we have continued to listen closely to the voices of young people from Upper Springfield and Ballymurphy. Through consultation and ongoing engagement, young people have shared their experiences and priorities, helping shape the direction of programmes planned for the coming year. Their input ensures that activities remain relevant, inclusive, and responsive to the realities they face.

Corpus Christi Youth Centre remains committed to providing opportunities that enable young people to develop skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. By placing young people at the centre of planning and decision-making, we aim to support them in building positive futures for themselves and their communities.

Acknowledgements

As we reflect on the past year, it is important to recognise that the achievements of Corpus Christi Youth Centre are the result of collective effort. Our work is strengthened by the many people and organisations who give their time, expertise, and resources to support young people in our community. While it is impossible to name everyone individually, each contribution plays a vital role in sustaining and developing our services.

I would like to extend sincere appreciation to our Management Committee for their continued leadership and commitment. Their guidance and support ensure the Centre remains focused, accountable, and responsive to the needs of young people, helping us maintain a strong foundation for quality youth provision.

Special thanks are also due to our staff team and volunteers whose dedication, energy, and creativity bring the Centre to life each day. Their commitment to creating a safe, positive, and supportive environment allows young people to grow in confidence, build skills, and feel valued within their community.

We also gratefully acknowledge the ongoing support of our funders and community partners whose investment makes our programmes and services possible. Their continued trust and collaboration enable us to respond to emerging needs and provide opportunities that benefit young people and families across the area.

Most importantly, we thank the young people who attend the Centre. Their enthusiasm, ideas, and resilience remind us why this work matters. Watching them develop skills, form friendships, and build confidence continues to inspire our efforts every day.

We look forward to continuing this journey together, supporting young people and strengthening our community in the year ahead.

With sincere thanks,

Annemarie Stone Senior Youth Worker Corpus Christi Youth Centre