Marlow Youth Provision and Hangout

The Marlow Youth Provision offers a combination of outreach work to engage with young people in the local community, alongside and leading to the creation of a safe, welcoming space where young people aged 11-16 can socialise, develop new skills, build positive relationships and access support from trusted youth workers. Delivered in the heart of the community, the provision creates opportunities for young people to engage in constructive activities, strengthen their wellbeing and feel connected to their local area.

The need for a targeted youth offer in the Donkeyfields area in Marlow is reinforced by ongoing concerns from residents and local partners regarding anti-social behaviour (ASB). Thames Valley Police have identified anti-social behaviour as a community priority, following repeated feedback from local residents.

Recent neighbourhood policing updates recorded multiple ASB incidents across the area, including community, environmental and personal anti-social behaviour reports. Local concerns have also centred on groups of young people gathering in public spaces, nuisance behaviour, off-road bike misuse and substance-related activity involving young people.

Police reports highlight increased concerns regarding nitrous oxide use by young people, while neighbourhood teams have responded to incidents involving youths engaging in behaviour that has caused distress to residents and local businesses. Residents and businesses have voiced frustrations about anti-social behaviour in public areas, leading to increased patrols and coordinated action between police, local councils, landowners and community partners.

Local reports demonstrate that partnership approaches are already being used to reduce ASB and improve community confidence, recognising that enforcement alone is not enough to address the underlying causes of youth disengagement. The Marlow Provision works collaboratively with schools, Thames Valley Police, community organisations, local councils and families to provide early intervention and positive opportunities for young people.

By offering a consistent safe space, supportive adult role models and constructive activities, the provision helps divert young people away from risk-taking behaviours and supports healthier, more positive engagement with their community. This Provision is a preventative community resource that responds directly to local concerns, supports safer neighbourhoods and empowers young people to make positive choices. Through strong partnership working and meaningful youth engagement, it contributes to improved outcomes for young people and the wider Marlow community with the aim of having a youth hangout in the area longer term.