Our Work, Impact & Journey
Since launching in 2019, UTurn has grown from a community-led idea into a trusted youth charity supporting young people and families across Tendring and Essex.
Our work combines early help, mentoring, safe spaces, targeted programmes and positive opportunities that help young people feel less alone, more supported and more able to cope with life’s challenges.
Our Journey Since 2019
UTurn was founded in 2019 by Shani and Tania, who shared a determination to stand alongside young people who were struggling to be seen and heard.
Starting small, they offered a listening ear, practical help and positive opportunities to young people and families across Tendring.
Drawing on lived experience, strong family values and backgrounds in fostering and education, they built UTurn as a family-driven, community-rooted organisation.
Since then, UTurn has grown into a dedicated team of staff, volunteers and Youth Ambassadors, secured a hub, expanded outreach and developed new projects to meet the changing needs of young people and families.
Developing Futures: Three Years of Impact
Through the Developing Futures project, National Lottery funding helped UTurn strengthen and grow support for children, young people and families across Tendring and Colchester.
The project helped UTurn recruit and retain two Senior Project Co-ordinators, strengthening safeguarding, staff and volunteer support, monitoring, partnerships and service development.
What Our Work Makes Possible
Our work helps young people feel safer, build confidence, improve wellbeing, strengthen relationships and access the right support at the right time.
Through mentoring, structured activities, outreach, holiday clubs, youth voice and trusted relationships, we create opportunities that are practical, supportive and rooted in the real lives of young people and families.
We also work alongside families, schools, professionals and community partners to help support feel joined-up and meaningful.
From Support to Youth Leadership
At UTurn, our work is built around safe spaces, trusted relationships and giving young people the chance to recognise their own potential.
Jules’ journey is a powerful example of this. After being connected to the UTurn family for many years, she has grown through support, encouragement and belonging.
Today, Jules is a Youth Ambassador Leader with UTurn, using her lived experience to support, encourage and inspire other young people.
Stories like this show why UTurn exists: to create safe, consistent support around young people and help them build confidence, resilience and brighter futures.
Recognition and Growth
Over time, UTurn has continued to grow in reach, impact and community support.
We are proud to have received recognition including the High Sheriff’s Award and the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. These milestones reflect the commitment of our staff, volunteers, partners, supporters and the young people who help shape our work.
Our Timeline
Since 2019, UTurn has grown from a small idea into a recognised local charity with a dedicated hub, outreach team and range of projects. Here are some of the key moments in our journey so far.
Foundation of UTurn
UTurn is established, founded by Shani and Tania with a mission to support young people.
Establishing a Home Base
UTurn establishes its official base at Clacton Coastal Academy, providing a supportive environment for its activities and outreach efforts.
Strengthening the Organisation
The organisation solidifies its structure by appointing dedicated board members who bring diverse skills and perspectives.
Launch of Online Support Platform
The organisation launches a new online platform to provide virtual support and resources, ensuring accessibility for young people regardless of their location.
Expanding Services
UTurn expands its services to include workshops and mentorship programmes, focusing on personal development, life skills, and emotional resilience.
Marathon Challenge for UTurn
Tom, a dedicated board member of UTurn, completes the London Half Marathon, raising vital funds to support the organisation’s initiatives and programmes.
Launch of Community Outreach
UTurn launches its first community outreach programmes, connecting with local schools and youth organisations to identify and support at-risk young people.
Awards and Recognition
UTurn is honoured with the High Sheriff’s Award and receives the prestigious High Sheriff’s Cup.
First Jack Petchey Awards
UTurn is invited to the Jack Petchey Awards for the first time, celebrating the achievements of young people in the community.
Lottery Funding Secured
UTurn receives significant lottery funding, allowing it to grow and enhance its programmes.
Launch of Youth Ambassadors Programme
The UTurn Youth Ambassadors Programme is launched, now boasting a large group of young people aged 10-20 years old.
Residential Trip to Wales
UTurn organises a residential trip to Wales for 10 young people, providing them with opportunities for personal growth and team-building.
Job Placement Initiatives
UTurn partners with several local businesses and community leaders to create job placement initiatives for young people, enhancing their career readiness and opportunities for employment.
New Premises
The organisation moves into new premises at 70 Old Road, providing a dedicated space for its programmes and services.
King's Award and Celebrating Five Years
UTurn celebrates five years of service and receives the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, recognising its impact within the community and the lives of young people.
Launch of Monthly Book Club
UTurn initiates a monthly Book Club, creating a space for community members, encouraging engagement with new books while generating funds to support UTurn.
Royal Garden Party Invitation
UTurn is invited to a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace, honouring its achievements and dedication to serving the community.
Participation in Tendring Youth Awards
UTurn participates in the Tendring Youth Awards, further acknowledging the positive impact on young people and the local community.
Introduction of UGO, the Mascot
UTurn introduced UGO, our elephant mascot, symbolising our commitment to Unity, Growth and Opportunity.
Successful UTurn Triathlon
Max, Steven, and Emily successfully complete the UTurn triathlon, generating essential funds to further support UTurn’s initiatives and programmes.
Securing Minibus Funding
UTurn secures funding from Tendring District Council to purchase a minibus, improving transport options for young people and community members and enhancing outreach capabilities.
Jack Petchey Intern Programme Funding
UTurn secures funding through the Jack Petchey Intern Programme, enabling the organisation to welcome an intern to support programme delivery, outreach, and work with young people.
Developing Futures Project Completed
UTurn completes its three-year National Lottery-funded Developing Futures project, supporting more than 11,500 youth and family engagements and strengthening mentoring, wellbeing support, youth leadership, safeguarding, partnerships and community-based activities across Tendring and Colchester.
Young People Leading Through Lived Experience
Jules, one of UTurn’s Youth Ambassador Leaders, and members of the family are involved in interviews and events linked to Essex County Council’s Sons and Daughters work, sharing reflections on fostering, family, belonging and positive futures.
Real Voices
The difference UTurn makes is best seen in the experiences of the young people, families and professionals we work alongside.
“UTurn gave us support at the right time and made us feel less alone.”
Parent / Carer feedback
“They build trust with young people in a way that really works.”
School / Professional feedback
“I felt more confident and supported after coming to UTurn.”
Young Person feedback
Support Our Work
Every donation, partnership, referral, volunteer contribution and message of support helps us continue creating safe spaces and positive futures for young people across our community.