Play Session at Barton Hill Urban Park – A Partnership Between Bristol Somali Youth Voice & LPW
Bristol Somali Youth Voice (BSYV) and Learning Partnership West (LPW) work in partnership to deliver play sessions at Barton Hill Urban Park every Tuesday after school, engaging young people from Barton Hill, particularly those living in nearby tower blocks. These sessions provide a safe, accessible, and inclusive space where young people can participate in a variety of physical and creative activities, including football, basketball, tug of war, rope jumping, group games, arts and drawing, and dancing.
The session takes place right on the doorstep of the young people we work with, making it highly accessible. The proximity of the location significantly contributes to high engagement and turnout, as many young people can easily join in. This initiative offers enriching activities that encourage physical activities, social interaction, and creative expression, creating a valuable after-school space where young people can be active, socialize, and have fun. Both parents and young people have expressed how convenient and beneficial these sessions are for them.
Our youth workers from BSYV and LPW have built strong relationships with young people and their parents/carers. Overcrowded housing is a major issue in Barton Hill, and these sessions not only provide recreational opportunities but also help alleviate some of the challenges associated with limited living space, thereby improving the well-being of participants.
Barton Hill is one of the most diverse wards in Bristol, and BSYV, (as the lead organisation), has a long-standing presence in the area. Through years of engagement, we have built trust and strong connections with young people and their families. This trust enhances the engagement/participation and encourages families to openly share their needs. It also allows us to effectively refer and signpost young people to other services where appropriate.
Our strong relationships have enabled us to gather valuable feedback from both parents and young people, helping us adapt and improve our delivery to better meet their needs and ensure inclusivity
Parent & Young People’s Testimonials
Here’s what some of the young people and parents had to say about the session:
Young Person’s Testimony:
“I like the play sessions at Barton Hill Urban Park—it happens right outside my house, and I can count on it! It’s also a great opportunity to meet my school friends and play football. It’s fun, enjoyable, and I love it!”
Parent’s Testimony:
“The sessions take place so close to our home, which makes it very convenient for my son and daughter. It gives young people a chance to play, socialise, and participate in sports. This has helped them make new friends and find a safe space to engage. Anti-social behaviour is a concern in the area, but these sessions give us peace of mind because we know our children are safe, active, and engaged. The fact that the sessions are free and well-organised makes a huge difference for families like ours.”
The youth partnrship in Lawerence hill has already led to noticeable positive change in the area. More young people now have access to structured activities after school, which is especially important in an area where many lack access to gardens or safe play spaces due to the prevalence of tower blocks.
Bristol Somali youth Voice is proud of the ongoing impact of these sessions. We are deeply committed to continuing this work, creating lasting positive change not only in Lawrence hill but across the city. Our goal is to help every young person reach their full potential and enjoy an active, healthy, and law abiding life.