Working as a Voice and Participation Youth Worker with asphaleia's young people in supported accommodation across Crawley and Worthing has been a rewarding experience. My role involves engaging with young people in a way that gives them a voice and makes their environment feel more like home. Through various hands-on activities, I’ve had the chance to not only connect with them but also offer a creative outlet and teach useful skills along the way.
getting creative: art and upcycling projects
One of the things I love most about my job is running creative projects that allow the young people to express themselves. Whether it's painting plant pots or tie-dyeing shirts, these activities give them a chance to explore their artistic side and take pride in what they create.
It's been great to see how much joy they get from these simple projects—plus, it adds a personal touch to their living spaces.
We’ve also tried some easy, low-cost upcycling projects like turning glass jars into storage containers. These are practical and eco-friendly ways to keep things organised, and help young people realise that they don’t always need to go out and buy something new.

brightening up the outdoors: gardening and more
Some of the properties had gardens that needed a bit of attention, so we rolled up our sleeves and worked together to tidy them up. We decluttered, cleared out overgrown areas, and even did a bit of upcycling to make the outdoor spaces more welcoming.
It’s amazing how much a clean, bright space can lift everyone's spirits—and it’s even better when the young people feel proud of the work they've put into it.
cooking workshops: a tasty way to connect
Every Wednesday, I’m based at one of the homes in Worthing, where a few young people have said that they wanted to improve their cooking skills. These sessions are such a fun way to bond with the young people while helping them with valuable life skills.
We’ve made simple meals together, and I always try to get them involved in choosing what we cook. There’s something about cooking that brings people together, and it’s been a great way to start conversations and build trust.
meeting them where they are
The most important part of this role is to remember that each young person is different, and I need to engage with them in a way that meets their individual needs. Whether it’s through art, gardening, cooking, or just listening, my goal is to create a safe space where they feel comfortable and supported.
Every day brings something new, and I’m grateful for the chance to be a part of their journey. Seeing them grow, develop new skills, and take pride in their contributions is what makes this job so special.