Youth Activities & Support in Camden: Your Complete Guide
Camden is committed to providing young people with enriching opportunities that support their development, wellbeing, and future success. Whether you’re looking for after-school activities, holiday programmes, or specialised support for young people with SEND, Camden’s comprehensive youth provision ensures every young person can thrive.
Council Youth Centres: Safe Spaces for Growth
Camden Council operates three main youth centres that serve as welcoming hubs for young people aged 13-19, with extended support up to age 25 for those with special educational needs or disabilities. These centres provide much more than just a place to spend time—they’re dynamic environments where young people can develop new skills, build friendships, and receive guidance.
Somers Town Youth Centre on Chalton Street offers a versatile programme including sports, games, trips, art, cooking, and volunteering opportunities. Open Monday to Friday by appointment during the day, with evening drop-in sessions four nights a week, the centre provides flexible access that fits around school and family commitments.
Highgate Haven Youth Hub has recently relocated to the Highgate Newtown Community Centre whilst maintaining its popular programme at historic Lauderdale House. The Lauderdale sessions run on Thursdays and feature exciting artist-led workshops in a youth-led environment where participants actively shape future activities. This approach ensures young people feel heard and engaged in their own development.
Netherwood Youth and Family Hub on Netherwood Street welcomes both young people and families, operating daily sessions by appointment and evening youth club sessions Monday through Friday. This dual focus on youth and family support recognises that strong family connections are vital to young people’s success.
All three centres offer access to Youth Early Help services, providing confidential support for 11–19-year-olds (up to 25 with learning difficulties and disabilities) facing challenges in their lives. Parents and carers can also reach out for guidance and support.
Camden’s Specialised SEND Youth Projects
Camden demonstrates exceptional commitment to young people with special educational needs and disabilities through targeted projects designed to meet diverse needs.
The Count Me in Project and Reactive Forum, both based at Somers Town Youth Centre, support children and young people aged 13-19 with mild to moderate learning disabilities. These projects create inclusive environments where young people can participate in activities tailored to their abilities and interests.
My SEND Space offers virtual drop-in sessions for 16–25-year-olds, providing convenient one-to-one consultations with SENDIASS officers. These 30-minute sessions, available via WhatsApp, Zoom, Teams, or phone, offer information and advice about education, next steps, and support concerns. Sessions run monthly from February through July on the second Wednesday of each month.
The Creative Health Camden Youth Hub at Kentish Town Health Centre provides a calm, artistic wellbeing space for 12–18-year-olds. With activities ranging from art workshops to table tennis, books, and board games, it bridges the gap between school and weekend, offering a relaxed environment for socialising and creativity.
icandance celebrates and empowers disabled children and young people aged 4-25 through creative, therapeutic dance and performance, whilst Voyagers offers music-making opportunities for primary-aged children with SEND every Wednesday during term-time at Edith Neville Primary School.
The Rebuilding Bridges programme supports children and young people with SEND or mental health needs who are regularly missing education. Through one-to-one mentoring, educational psychology support, and family assistance, the programme helps young people engage in activities, improve confidence, achieve personal goals, and re-engage with education.
Young People for Inclusion (YPFI) run fortnightly sessions at Somers Town Community Association for 16–25-year-olds who are disabled, learning disabled, or neurodivergent, focusing on life skills, independence, and personal development.
Let Jimac Cars provide safe and reliable transport for families and young people with SEND needs, making every journey easier and stress-free.
Holiday Programmes and Seasonal Activities
Camden ensures young people remain engaged and supported throughout school holidays with structured programmes that combine fun, learning, and nutrition.
The Easter Holiday Activities and Food Programme runs for two weeks during the Easter break and is available to 5–16-year-olds living in Camden who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals. Coordinated by Young Camden Foundation, the programme offers creative activities including photography, drama, arts and crafts, sports like football and basketball, and nutritional education. A free hot meal is included daily, ensuring children’s wellbeing during the holidays.
Camden Summer University provides free enrolment for 13–19-year-olds who live in Camden, attend local state schools, or participate in council-run youth centres. The programme helps young people stay safe, learn new skills, make friends, and build credentials for future university, apprenticeship, or employment applications.
Skills Development and Award Schemes
Camden offers unique opportunities for young people to develop practical skills and gain recognised qualifications.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is available through Camden’s youth centres, providing structured programmes that develop skills, physical fitness, and community involvement whilst building resilience and confidence.
The Avalon Project stands out as a distinctive offering for 13–19-year-olds (up to 25 with SEND) interested in motorcycle mechanics and off-road riding experiences. Now based in new Euston premises, the project provides hands-on learning in a unique skill area, opening up potential career pathways in mechanics and engineering.
Real Talk creates a safe debate space for 16–25-year-olds to express opinions and challenge ideas on topics affecting their lives. These events empower young people to shape future services whilst developing critical thinking and public speaking skills.
Getting Involved: How to Access Support
Accessing Camden’s youth provision is straightforward. Young people can drop into any of the three main youth centres during open sessions, contact centres directly by phone or email, or reach out to specific projects based on their interests.
The Camden Detached Youth Team takes a proactive approach by engaging with young people aged 11 and above in community spaces—estates, parks, and high streets. This mobile team works with young people who may not attend traditional youth centres, offering programmes and activities in familiar local settings.
For families seeking information about services and support for children and young people with SEND, Camden’s Local Offer website provides a comprehensive directory of available provision across the borough.
Parents and carers play a vital role in connecting young people with opportunities. Whether contacting youth centres directly, reaching out to Youth Early Help services via email, or exploring specific projects, support is readily available to help young people find the right activities for their needs and interests.
