Introduction: A City’s Fight Against Austerity
While many UK cities lost youth centres to funding cuts, Portsmouth defied the odds. Through grassroots activism, creative partnerships, and powerful storytelling, the city preserved these vital spaces for young people. Here’s how they did it – and what other communities can learn.
The Crisis: Youth Centres Facing Closure
A decade of austerity hit Portsmouth hard. By 2022, nearly half of UK youth clubs had closed since 2010, and Portsmouth’s council proposed similar cuts. These centres weren’t just buildings – they were lifelines for vulnerable teens, offering mentorship, activities, and safe spaces. Without them, many feared rising youth crime and disengagement.
The Turning Point: A Former Troublemaker’s Testimony
Jason Williams, 28, became an unlikely hero in the fight. Once a self-described “naughty kid,” he credits a youth centre with keeping him out of trouble.
“If it wasn’t for the youth club, I’d probably have ended up in prison,” Williams said. His story struck a chord, proving these centres transform lives.
How Portsmouth Saved Its Youth Centres
The community rallied with a four-part strategy:
- Public Pressure – Petitions and protests showed councillors the depth of local support.
- Charity & Business Partnerships – Organisations like Portsmouth FC’s community trust provided funding and resources.
- Volunteer Power – Former attendees and youth workers stepped up to keep doors open.
- Council Compromise – A hybrid model blended council funding with community management.
The Outcome: Stronger Than Ever
Not only did the centres survive, but they also expanded programs in mentoring, sports, and job training. Former “problem kids” now mentor others, creating a cycle of positive change.
Key Takeaways for Other Cities
- Mobilise the Community – Public demand can sway policy decisions.
- Leverage Lived Experience – Stories like Williams’ highlight real-world impact.
- Build Partnerships – Cross-sector collaboration fills budget gaps.
Portsmouth proves that even in austerity, communities can protect what matters most.
