NE Youth celebrates 90 years strong

A North East youth charity has marked nearly a century of life-changing work with a milestone celebration and ambitious plans for the future.

NE Youth hosted a 90th anniversary gala at The Fed, in Gateshead, welcoming over 400 guests to reflect on its legacy of supporting young people across the region. 

Performances on the night came from Lawnmowers, Josie Littlewood, Alf Hill and singer-songwriter Channy, with BBC presenter Anna Foster hosting the event.

John Niblo, chief executive of NE Youth, said: “Nine decades is a long time! 

“The fact that we are still going and growing is an incredible feat! 

“Our Gala event allowed us to celebrate the rich history of NE Youth, catch up with old friends and supporters whilst being entertained by some brilliant young people…and we raised a few quid too! 

“Now more than ever we need financial support to ensure our sustainability and our promise to the young people of the region.

“It was such as incredible evening! Huge thanks to our sponsor Robertson North Ltd and all who donated on the night.

“We raised £12,000 which means we can support so many more young people.”

Founded in 1935 as The Northumberland Association of Boys Clubs, the organisation has evolved into a modern, inclusive charity delivering both open-access and targeted youth programmes.

To date, NE Youth has supported more than one million young people, remaining active through wars, recessions, and national crises. 

To celebrate its anniversary year, the charity has launched the One in a Million campaign, calling on former members and supporters to share their stories for a documentary that will showcase its impact.

As part of the campaign, archival material dating back decades will be shared publicly with the hope of reconnecting with individuals who helped shape NE Youth’s remarkable story.

The organisation is also working to raise an additional £90,000 in their anniversary year to further its mission. 

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