In a major boost for North East Lincolnshire’s young people, Horizon Youth Zone has appointed Jack Burrows as its first-ever Head of Youth Work. Jack will lead a team of youth workers dedicated to supporting thousands of young people when the state-of-the-art Youth Zone opens later this year. His appointment is a significant milestone as the charity ramps up preparations for its 2025 launch.
A qualified PE teacher and proud Grimbarian, Jack has spent his career empowering young people and advocating for their well-being. He brings a wealth of experience, most recently from his role as Lead Exploitation Practitioner in the young people’s safeguarding team at North East Lincolnshire Council. He is passionate and dedicated to supporting young people to achieve positive futures.
In his new role, Jack will spearhead Horizon’s extensive programme of activities and support services, while supporting the Young People’s Development Group (YPDG). This group of young volunteers has been instrumental in shaping the Youth Zone, from choosing its name ‘Horizon’ to helping raise awareness about the transformative impact Horizon Youth Zone will have on young people in the community. The group were also involved in Jack’s appointment – with some of its members sitting on his interview panel alongside Horizon’s CEO Lucy Ottewell-Key.
Commenting on his appointment, Jack said: “I am thrilled to join Horizon Youth Zone as Head of Youth Work. This charity has the potential to become a cornerstone of our community, providing young people with a vibrant, safe space they can call their second home. My goal is to not only create an engaging programme that offers exciting activities, but also ensures every young person feels supported and valued by our brilliant youth workers. Youth Work plays a crucial role beyond the classroom. At Horizon, we’re not just offering facilities; we’re providing trusted relationships and holistic support that can change lives. I’m excited to build a passionate team of youth workers that make a real difference for many years to come.”
Lucy Ottewell-Key, CEO of Horizon Youth Zone, said: “We are pleased to welcome Jack to the team. His dedication, energy, and vision for young people is exactly what Horizon needs as we build towards opening. Jack’s leadership will be vital in shaping the future of Horizon and inspiring young people across North East Lincolnshire and comes at an exciting time as we reach out to the community raising the profile of what Horizon will offer.”
Jack is the latest addition to Horizon’s growing team as the charity moves ever closer to opening later this year.
Once opened, Horizon will become part of the growing OnSide Network of 15 existing OnSide Youth Zones which support over 50,000 young people every year. With a membership fee of just £5 per year and 50p per visit, Horizon will offer North East Lincolnshire’s young people aged 8 to 19 (and up to 25 for those with additional needs) access to world-class facilities. These include an indoor climbing wall, four-court sports hall, music room with a recording studio, fully equipped gym, dance and drama studio, 3G kick pitch, and more.
Horizon’s dedicated team of trained youth workers and volunteers will be available seven days a week, providing guidance, mentorship, and support to help young people thrive.
For more information visit www.horizonyouthzone.org or follow Horizon on X (Twitter) @Horizon_yz.