Ashby's InspireYouth Collective (IYC) is celebrating their first birthday since opening on 10 September 2024. 

The youth group and community space has become an integral part of the community in just one year, providing vital support and services to local people. 

As well as offering afterschool and school-holiday activity clubs, the IYC run a community fridge, social events, networking opportunities, sensory sessions for children, art and craft groups and more. 

The IYC runs a huge variety of events and activities for young people, as well as providing a safe space (Photo: IYC)

The IYC is a 'vibrant community hub by day and a safe, engaging space for youth in the evening,' helping to break down the financial and social barriers in the local area and foster confidence, creativity and well-being through creative arts, mental health support, personal activities and providing a safe space. 

During the year since they opened, the IYC has run a series of sold-out summer holiday clubs, launched their clothing bank and community fridge, offered a huge array of groups club and activities and grown a community of 116 members and counting. 

They have partnered with some brilliant local organisation, including Ashby's Venture Theatre, Coalville CAN, Fitness Republic, Ashby Arts Festival and Fare Share. 

The IYC provides suppoer to young people to encourage confidence and well-being (Photo: IYC)

They have also got stuck in with community events including Ashby Pride. 

The IYC team has also been commended for their hard work with two brilliant awards. They were presented with the Women's Entrepreneurship Award 2025 for Community Impact and Prestige and Central England Award for Youth Innovation of the Year. 

If you would like to get involved with the IYC or support this brilliant local community, visit the InspireYouth Collective website or Facebook Page.