Getting IT right with new tech for young people
Digital technology can offer numerous benefits to young people, including improved connectivity, problem-solving and critical thinking, and social-emotional development.
Better Youth Spaces fund has provided around £2.5M in grants to 234 youth services across England for digital equipment or improvements to IT. Digital tech equipment was the most requested type of funding from organisations, helping to improve access to technology packages and tools.
In addition, 90 organisations received funding for gaming and entertainment, 183 services benefited from new creative tools including media studio equipment and 3D printing, and 29 received grants for other educational equipment including kit like robotics packages.
Prospex, a charity that works with vulnerable young people 8-21 years in the London Borough of Islington, had ambitious plans for their Better Youth Spaces grant. The funding enabled them to expand their tech hub beyond music, podcasting, and film production by introducing a 3D printer to help young people to explore creative industries as potential career paths.
Richard Frankland, CEO from Prospex, said: “We added two new IMacs, speakers, and a dedicated media setup, that would increase access to digital opportunities. We have also introduced a Batak reaction machine, which improves hand-eye co-ordination and stamina by enabling users to train under simulated ‘sports like’ conditions. This will encourage more young people to engage in physical activity at the centre. Finally, a high-quality electric drum kit is introducing young people to live music and learning new skills.”
Sovereign House GH is a registered charity dedicated to empowering disadvantaged children and young people across Greater Manchester by bridging the digital divide and widening access to digital opportunities. Through the Better Youth Spaces grant, the organisation created an inspirational, hands‑on technology package that has significantly enhanced its Computer Learning Programme. The investment has enabled the introduction of high‑spec laptops, tablets and interactive digital tools, creating a modern learning environment where young people can move beyond theory and actively develop practical digital and STEM skills. This enhanced provision supports creativity, problem‑solving and collaboration, while building confidence and aspiration among participants; many of whom are experiencing advanced technology for the first time, helping to open clearer pathways into further education, training and future careers.
Irene, from Sovereign House GH, said: “As CEO, I’ve seen first-hand how our robotics programme is transforming the Computer Learning Programme and the aspirations of the young people we support. By combining high‑spec laptops and hands‑on robotics, learning shifts from theory to practice, enabling young people to move confidently from curiosity to competence.
They are coding, engineering and problem‑solving in real time, working collaboratively to innovative ideas, overcome challenges and seeing tangible results from their efforts. This practical, immersive approach not only strengthens digital literacy and STEM skills, but also builds confidence, teamwork and resilience. For many participants, this is the first meaningful exposure to advanced technology, and will open clear pathways into further education, training and future careers in technology and science; equipping young people with the skills, ambition and belief to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.”
Better access to digital equipment can help improve young people’s digital literacy and confidence, potentially supporting future career opportunities. And creative activities using digital equipment can help spark inspiration and nurture young people’s imagination and help young people explore new creative pursuits.
In a fast-changing digital world, it is more important than ever that all young people have access to the latest technology. Grants from Better Youth Spaces have meant youth services can provide more opportunities for young people to develop their digital skills, get creative, and stay connected.