Four youth-led projects in the North West have been awarded Historic England funding to uncover and celebrate overlooked local stories
From Greater Manchester’s canals to Rawtenstall’s bandstands,
The History in the Making programme empowers under-represented young people to explore and celebrate their local hidden histories, finding original ways to commemorate them.
The programme aims to improve young people’s wellbeing, from increasing connection to and pride in their local place, to gaining skills and social confidence.
Canal to Garden will engage young people in Greater Manchester to uncover and celebrate the hidden history of local canals and flora through hands-on gardening, historical research, and creative expression.
It will result in a heritage garden that tells the story of our local environment.
Whitaker Park in Rawtenstall was once known for sound and music, but its bandstands are now silent. This project seeks to bring the music back. Young people will be paid to work with a curator to uncover these histories before creating sound-based responses. QR codes in the park will link to these new soundscapes.
Meanwhile Local young people will delve into the LGBTQIA+ history of Stockport. What this project ultimately creates is very much in the hands of the young people and yet to be decided, but they’re exploring creating a ‘queer map’ of the area or producing a mural.
Following an open call out in July, Historic England received nearly 100 applications for the scheme and was guided in the decision-making process by Historic England’s Young Advisers. Twenty-one grants of up to £15k, a total of £261k, will fund projects over the 18 months starting in January 2025.
These projects will provide new opportunities for young people to discover, engage and connect with their local stories and ensure the history that matters to them is remembered. Using different artforms, from murals and art works to immersive walking trails and theatre productions, young people will decide who and what to celebrate and how best to do it.
Heritage Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “This Government recognises that whilst passion is everywhere, opportunity is not, and we are committed to providing young people with equal chances to develop their skills, regardless of background.
“I am thrilled that Historic England’s History in the Making programme will fund these important projects, to enrich the lives of young people, develop their confidence and unearth history to shape their future.”
