2025/26 IMPACT REPORT
During the year ended March 2026, Wigan Youth Zone continued to deliver against 
the ambitious three-year strategy developed in 2024 in partnership with young 
people, team members, Trustees and stakeholders across our community.
As in recent years, the lives of young people have been shaped by a complex and 
challenging environment. Ongoing pressures on mental health, rising demand for 
SEND support, the lasting effects of the cost-of-living crisis and wider global 
uncertainty continue to influence confidence, wellbeing and aspirations for the 
future. These challenges have also been felt across the charitable sector, making the 
delivery of consistent, high-quality provision more important than ever.
Through the continued power of first-class youth work, Wigan Youth Zone has 
remained focused on providing safe, inclusive and inspiring spaces where young 
people can belong, feel supported and reach their full potential. Our strategy has 
enabled us not only to sustain these vital services, but to strengthen them in the face 
of consistently high demand and financial pressure.
It is with pride that we reflect on this year of delivery, having made strong progress 
against our three strategic priorities, which are summarised in this Impact Report. 
These outcomes demonstrate both the essential role we play within the community 
and the continued commitment of our supporters in helping us meet the need.
We also know that the impact of this work extends far beyond individual 
outcomes. Every £1 invested in Wigan Youth Zone now generates £15.50 in social 
value — equating to almost £30m delivered for our community over the past year.
We hope this report reinforces your view that Wigan Youth Zone continues to stand 
as a vital community asset — a place of opportunity, support and ambition for 
generations of young people across our borough. Because that is exactly what we are 
here to achieve.
Thank you for the role you play in making this possible.
Anthony Ashworth-Steen, CEO
Gary Speakman, Chair of Trustees

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