Sponsored by Scottish Police Federation
Within North Lanarkshire’s youth work scene, The Compass Project is changing the lives of young people in conflict, or at risk of conflict, with the law. Rooted in relationship-based practices and a contextual safeguarding approach, The Compass Project offers pathways to building a better future through youth work that inspires growth, safety, and opportunity.
The project has supported 55 young people to date, through prevention models and Early Effective Intervention pathways. With hundreds of one-on-one sessions delivered, alongside extensive collaboration with schools and families, the project has become a trusted name in its community. Awards and achievements are woven into its fabric — 35 young people have started SQA qualifications, and outdoor learning awards have given life skills and confidence.
Through its prevention efforts, including harm reduction workshops, diversionary activities, and resources like the Risk Wheel, the project enables young people to identify to their own needs and triggers.
Working at the prevention stage, initiatives such as the “Imagine a Man” toolkit from NKBL explore positive masculinity, creating inclusive environments where young men feel safe addressing personal challenges. The project also works with care-experienced young people, with evidence showing that full engagement has successfully prevented re-offending.
Guided by the UNCRC and trauma-informed practices, the team meets young people where they are and supports them to step into other youth work in their schools and communities when ready. The Compass Project is about more than just intervention — it’s about building trust and promoting the wellbeing and success of young people.
The Denis Law Legacy Trust’s Streetsport Programme is making a lasting impact in Aberdeen’s most disadvantaged communities. By providing free weekly sports and creative activity sessions five nights a week, 50 weeks a year, Streetsport is tackling youth anti-social behaviour while cultivating inclusivity, health, and wellbeing.
With a mobile sports arena, the programme has reached over 24,000 participants across more than 500 sessions this year alone. Young people have access to multi-purpose sports facilities seven nights a week, and a new session in Kincorth has seen a remarkable 79% reduction in youth anti-social behaviour.
Streetsport is built on developing young people, forming strong relationships, and encouraging good decision-making. Impressively, 70% of its coaches are former participants, highlighting the programme’s success in enabling long-term development. Initiatives like the Granite City Speaks Youth Forum bring young people together to address community issues, organise events, and build support networks that strengthen connections across the city.
One young person said:
“They are extremely supportive and the impact they have had on myself has led to building my confidence greatly, and I feel they have helped me become a better person.”
This relationship-driven approach helps participants gain skills, develop their values, and find a sense of purpose. Streetsport’s ‘empowering coaching’ philosophy builds trust, meeting a unique need for guidance in young people’s lives.
These bonds inspire participants to return, challenge themselves, and connect beyond their communities. Beyond activities, Streetsport equips young people with the confidence and purpose.
Through the Gears is a groundbreaking project that brings young people into the world of motorcycling — not just as riders, but as individuals ready to take on new challenges. Focused on responsible riding, mechanics, and maintenance, the project opens up opportunities for personal growth, competition, and even future careers.
Alongside learning to ride with confidence, participants engage with topics like victim perspectives, mental health, volunteering, and employability, all while building their physical and mental resilience. Young people have competed in national competitions, with some earning top-five finishes and anticipating future trophies.
Media coverage on BBC1, STV News, and BBC Radio Scotland has highlighted the impact of Through the Gears in transforming lives. By enabling positive experiences and adrenaline-fueled camaraderie, young people gain confidence, stimulate their minds, and strengthen social connections.
At its heart, the project is about community and inclusivity — tailored approaches ensure all young people, including those facing challenges like autism or mental health struggles, feel welcomed and valued. Sessions explore topics such as drugs and alcohol, mental health, nutrition and employability, with partner organisations like Barnardo’s and Clued Up contributing to a holistic model of youth work.
One parent shares: “Kingdom have played a crucial role in my son’s life opportunities and have positively impacted his well-being and social skills.”
Through the Gears is helping participants find a road to new opportunities. The project is about more than just bikes; it’s about pushing boundaries and discovering potential.