New Youth Opportunities Emerge in Barnstaple
Positive developments for young people in Barnstaple have been gaining momentum in recent weeks, with new initiatives creating valuable spaces for connection, creativity, and community voice.
Phil Harris, the Devon Mental Health Alliance’s (DMHA) Community Mental Health Development Lead for North Devon, has been closely involved in supporting this work locally.
A key highlight is the launch of a six-month pilot at the Youth House, now opening from 3:30pm to 6pm every Tuesday as a drop-in space for young people aged 13–17. This initiative has been designed to offer a relaxed and welcoming environment, where young people can shape their own experience.
Reflecting on recent progress, Phil shared:
“The Youth House is running a 6 month pilot, opening 3.30pm - 6pm every Tuesday as a Drop-in space for young people aged 13-17. While covered by youth workers, this evening is about the young people, rather than an organised youth space.”
The Barnstaple Youth Council has been central to this development, helping ensure that the voices of young people are embedded within local decision-making and community activity. Phil explained:
“The Barnstaple Youth council are involved in this development and the DMHA are proud to support our local youth council. Through our community development work, we provide time to help run the council, and support through our work with the Kailo project in codesigning and working through challenges and projects that the Youth Council votes to tackle in Barnstaple.”
This collaborative approach reflects DMHA’s commitment to empowering communities through asset-based community development, recognising and building on the strengths and ideas that already exist locally.
Recent activity has further highlighted the growing energy behind youth engagement in Barnstaple. Phil noted:
“This week we were delighted to welcome members of Devon Youth Council to the official opening of the Youth House hangout and the MOLA team of archaeologists… to support how young people can get involved in telling local stories.”
- Phil Harris, Devon Mental Health Alliance
The opening brought together young people from across the region, reinforcing connections and shared purpose. In addition, the latest Barnstaple Youth Council monthly meeting welcomed external partners to explore new creative opportunities. This innovative partnership offers young people the chance to engage with local heritage and storytelling, helping ensure that community narratives are shaped by those who live there. A value that is at the heart of the DMHA’s asset-based community development work.
“In the DMHA, our community developers are passionate about sharing local stories, as part of our work towards asset-based community development, empowering our local communities.”
- Phil Harris, Devon Mental Health Alliance
As these projects continue to develop over the coming months, they highlight the importance of giving young people the space, support, and confidence to lead change within their communities.