The SHAPE Programme, a pioneering child’s voice initiative by Sandwell Council, has been championing youth empowerment and community development since 2014.
With a mission rooted in five core outcomes: Staying Safe, Being Healthy, Enjoying & Achieving, making a Positive Contribution and Economic Wellbeing, SHAPE has become a vital platform for children and young people to influence services and thrive in a supportive environment.
Through innovative events, strategic partnerships, and youth-led consultations, the SHAPE Programme has engaged over 20,000 children and young people across Sandwell and neighbouring areas.
Challenge
Sandwell Council recognised a need to give young people a stronger voice in shaping the services and support systems designed for them. There was also a broader ambition: to develop future leaders, reduce social exclusion and ensure all young people, regardless of background, could contribute positively to their communities.
To meet these goals, the SHAPE Programme was established to offer meaningful engagement, provide platforms for talent and expression, and deliver vital support around safety, wellbeing and aspirations.
Solution
The SHAPE Programme has delivered a rich and varied youth offer through multiple initiatives:
- SHAPE Your Talent – a creative stage for young performers across music, dance and entertainment.
- SHAPE Youth Forum – a bi-weekly platform for young people (ages 11–21) to influence decision-making.
- SHAPE Summer Youth Festival – a free, family-focused festival drawing 6,000–8,000 attendees annually, with more than 70 organisations promoting services and activities.
- UK Youth Parliament Support – facilitating the election and mentorship of Sandwell’s MYPs to ensure national representation.
- Anti-Bullying Roadshows – a proactive campaign in partnership with West Midlands Police, delivered across schools to address bullying.
- Annual SHAPE Survey – with over 2,700 responses in 2024, this consultation tool helps shape council policy and services based on real youth feedback.
The programme is supported by a board of partners including the NHS, West Midlands Fire Service, schools, colleges and community.
SHAPE Youth Summer Festival
An outstanding example of SHAPE’s inclusive impact is the Youth Summer Fest, held annually at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Created in response to young people’s call for positive summer activities, the event offers sports, arts, performances and a vibrant 5k Colour Run.
The festival draws thousands from across the West Midlands which strengthens community ties, promotes healthy lifestyles and showcases opportunities for youth engagement. In 2025, the festival expects up to 8,000 attendees.
How you can support SHAPE
Sponsoring the SHAPE Programme is more than a marketing opportunity it’s a chance to invest in the future of your community. Sponsors benefit from:
- Brand exposure across social media, press, and public materials
- Engagement with local families and service providers
- Contribution to a nationally recognised programme
Available sponsorship tiers include Gold (£1,000), Silver (£500), and Bronze (£100), each offering a range of promotional benefits, from social media campaigns to festival banners and inclusion in press materials.
If your interested in sponsoring you can contact the SHAPE team at shape_events@sandwell.gov.uk. SHAPE is more than just a programme; it’s a movement that puts children and young people at the heart of local life.
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