Our story

Across our three decades of serving the community, we’re proud to have developed a reputation as a ‘can-do’ organisation that has evolved to meet the needs of the young people we work with.

Described in the press as “One of England’s most imaginative youth projects” and honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, we’re recognised nationally for our work.

But our greatest achievement remains closer to home: seeing young people thrive, grow in confidence, overcome challenges, and know they have a place where they are always valued and supported.

Donate

A smiling woman in sporty attire, wearing a black shirt, black leggings with gray knee patches, white sneakers, a bicycle helmet, and sunglasses, standing beside an orange Trek mountain bike against a black background.

Large turquoise number 66 on a black background.

Young Carers has helped me to do things I never thought I would. I get anxious about trying new things and leaving mum, but I managed to go on a weekend away with other carers and even completed the high ropes challenge, which was amazing!

Sign for Holt Youth Centre with a drawing of an owl, supporting the project, starting July 1, 2003, with the focus on young people, the future, and responsibility.

The early years

Our journey began in the mid-1990s, when Julie Alford opened her home to local young people who had nowhere else to go.

Holt’s old wooden youth hut, once run by volunteers, had been demolished years earlier and never replaced. Unlike other Norfolk towns, Holt had no youth facility and no funded youth workers, and without a high school in town, it didn’t qualify for support.

Before long, as many as 45 young people were gathering regularly in Julie’s front room. Julie often said, “What we really need is a shed in a field. Somewhere that the young people can call their own.”

That simple idea sparked a huge community campaign. With support from local press and radio, a public meeting was held in December 1996 to discuss where such a shed could go and how funds might be raised. They were daunting questions, but they lit the spark that would grow into Holt Youth Project. With the support of Dick Copas BEM, retired Gresham’s Deputy Head, and Ray Swain, Local Police officer, their dedication and hard work helped build the foundation of the Project.

Growing up in rural areas of the UK presents a unique set of challenges for children and young people. Holt Youth Project has been rising to these challenges for over 30 years.

In 2013, the BBC documentary ‘Living with Poverty – Country Kids’ followed the families and young people of the Holt Youth Project, charting the realities of rural poverty and its effects.

A girl with long hair, wearing a light blue hoodie, pink shorts, and white shoes, climbing a pole and smiling.

Holt Youth Project today

Today, Holt Youth Project is a thriving hub where young people can find support, friendship, and opportunities to empower them to reach their goals and aspirations through various programmes, activities and life skills.

Our purpose-built centre on Old Station Way in Holt has become a safe, welcoming space where young people feel a sense of ownership and belonging.

The building is full of life, with a sports hall, recreation area, computer suite, snug, allotment and fully equipped kitchen. Our Health Hut gym adds another dimension, helping young people focus on wellbeing and healthy lifestyles.

The youth workers treat us as if we really matter, they listen to us.

With dedicated staff and volunteers, we run an imaginative programme of activities, training, and support. From life skills and creative projects to social groups and mentoring, there is something for everyone, whatever their background or need.

Above all, we remain rooted in our community —working alongside families, schools, and local partners to ensure young people across north Norfolk have every chance to thrive.

Our team

Our dedicated team of staff, volunteers, trustees and patrons are passionate about serving the young people of Holt Youth Project.

Julie established the youth group 35 years ago in her own home in Holt with passion and dedication. After the opening of the Project’s purpose-built building in 2004 Julie has managed and supported the team to create and deliver the vital service it provides today. Julie is very proud of all the Project has achieved and puts this down to the amazing young people and their energy, to her they will always come first.

“The greatest reward is empowering young people to achieve their dreams and aspirations whatever their background or need”
Jamie is a highly experienced member of the team who is qualified in Gym Instruction, Youth Work, Mentoring and Teacher Training. Jamie heads up the Health Hut, Men’s group and supports Young Carers. He plans and delivers youth sessions to all age groups providing support and leadership within the programmes.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from helping young people grow and flourish, being able to watch them gain power over their lives and achieve their potential is a privilege to watch.”
Lisa joined the team in 2009. Lisa is a highly experienced member of the team who is qualified in Children and Youth Work, Mentoring, and Teacher Training. Lisa currently heads up the delivery and management of our City and Guilds qualifications and delivers children and youth work.
“I love being able to open doors and create long-lasting memories for young people, I find their way of looking at life infectious. My job is certainly never boring!”
Vicki joined the team in 2019. Vicki is a highly experienced member of the team and leads the North Norfolk Young Carers group. Vicki also delivers children and youth work.
“Young people are amazing! I love their energy and am always in awe of the potential I see in them every day.”
Sira joined our team in 2024 with childcare experience. Sira provides support for the North Norfolk Young Carers group and their respite residentials.
“It’s really rewarding to support the Young Carers by providing respite and fun activities that other young people may take for granted.”
Sharon joined the team in May 2024. Sharon is the Programme coordinator for City and Guilds. She also supports children and young people and assists with the North Norfolk YAB.
“I am over the moon to be part of the team at Holt Youth Project a truly unique youth service.”
Ben joined the team in 2023, assisting the Young Men’s group. Ben also supports the children and youth work and assists with youth residentials. Ben is also a qualified gym instructor.
“To be a part of their growth and development is the biggest privilege and I am proud to be part of the team.”
Luke joined the team in 2025. Luke assists in the children and young people groups, on residential breaks and keeps our social media posts up to date.
"Seeing the positive impact you can have on young people and watching their confidence grow is incredibly rewarding."
Hannah joined the team in March 2024. Hannah thrives on the fast pace and energy of the children and young people. Hannah delivers activities in our craft and cooking area, planning fun crafts appropriate for each age group. She is also a qualified youth gym instructor.
“I believe young people are our future! So I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to give back to the community and make a difference.”
Adehl joined the team in March 2024 as Personal Assistant to Julie. Adehl is highly experienced in providing administrative support, working on grant applications, attending forums and meetings representing the Manager.
“I enjoy working with this worthwhile project, who are supporting the young people in the local community.”
Mairi joined the team in November 2023. Mairi is experienced in Accounts and Administration, providing support for the Manager and Leads. Mairi also assists where needed in the project.
“Although not actively involved with groups or activities, it gives me great pleasure to be part of the team and to see just how beneficial the services of Holt Youth Project are for the young people from behind the scenes”