Young Somerset recently welcomed Sir Ashley Fox, MP for Bridgwater, and later that day Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, Clare Moody, to its Bold & Brave Angel Place charity shop in Bridgwater. The visit offered an important opportunity to showcase the wide‑ranging support the charity provides for children and young people across Somerset.
Guests were shown the Bold & Brave social enterprise spaces, where young people on Supported Internships gain hands‑on experience in retail, hospitality and entrepreneurship. From handmade products to barista training, interns develop real‑world skills, receive mentoring and benefit from a supportive environment that builds both personal confidence and employability.
During the visit, Young Somerset staff also highlighted some of the key challenges facing local young people, including pressures on mental health, limited opportunities in some communities and barriers to accessing timely support. Discussions focused on how partnership working across sectors can help build safer, stronger communities where young people are able to thrive.
Nik Harwood, Young Somerset CEO, said:
“We are always proud to share the positive impact our work is having on young lives. These visits allow us to highlight the importance of early help, meaningful opportunities and continued partnership working to ensure every young person across Somerset is supported to grow, achieve and feel heard.”
Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, Clare Moody, said:
“My visit to Young Somerset reinforced how vital early intervention and prevention are to our young people, which is why they are a central part of my Police and Crime Plan. By working in partnership to support young people through education, mental health services and positive opportunities, we prevent harm, reduce violence and help build safer neighbourhoods where young people are supported to thrive.”
Young Somerset also highlighted its wider offer, which supports children and young people at every stage of their development. This includes a growing network of violence‑reduction hubs and youth drop‑in spaces across the county, providing safe places to access guidance, take part in positive activities and build trusted relationships with adults. The organisation runs two community cafés and two charity gift shops, all designed as youth‑friendly spaces where young people can develop skills, confidence and a sense of belonging.
For younger children and families, Young Somerset delivers multiple Early Years Explorers sessions, alongside a range of youth groups that promote wellbeing, social development and positive engagement in communities.
To find out more about Young Somerset, or how you can get involved, please visit www.youngsomerset.org.uk or email admin@youngsomerset.org.uk.
