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Norfolk Chosen for Major Youth Investment

Friday, 13 November 2026 at 07:56

Norfolk is among 60 areas selected for youth funding, while Norwich Theatre joins a nationwide scheme expanding creative opportunities locally.

Norfolk has been selected as one of 60 areas across England to benefit from a major government programme aimed at improving opportunities and facilities for young people.

The £450 million Youth Matters Fund will support improvements to youth clubs, community facilities and activities including sport, music and volunteering.

Norfolk and Suffolk are both among the areas selected for investment, with the first £20.7 million being distributed nationally this year.

The government says the programme will focus on communities where young people have limited access to activities and safe places to spend time outside school.

Meanwhile, Norwich Theatre has been chosen as one of twelve regional partners in a separate National Theatre initiative.

The four-year programme aims to give more than 100,000 children and young people across England the opportunity to experience live theatre, potentially for the first time.

The scheme will include performances touring to 400 schools, creative workshops, practical training and thousands of subsidised £10 theatre tickets.

Young people will also have opportunities to explore acting, directing, writing and backstage careers.

Stephen Crocker, chief executive and creative director of Norwich Theatre, welcomed the announcement, saying young people should have opportunities to experience creativity regardless of where they live.

The government says the two initiatives are designed to improve access to cultural experiences, develop skills and create opportunities for future employment.

 

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