October 26, 2026
We are proud to share that The Hideaway Youth Project was selected as one of nine youth clubs across the UK to contribute to the creation of the Youth Club Dictionary, an exciting national initiative developed by JD Sports and BBC Children in Need.
The first of its kind, the Youth Club Dictionary celebrates the unique language, expressions and experiences shared by young people within youth clubs. Created with contributions from young people themselves, the dictionary captures the words and meanings that reflect their identities, friendships and everyday lives.
At Hideaway, we believe that young people's voices deserve to be heard, valued and celebrated. Being part of this project has given our young people the opportunity to contribute to something truly unique, sharing their language and experiences as part of a national celebration of youth culture.
Youth clubs are much more than places to take part in activities. They are spaces where young people build friendships, develop confidence, express themselves and form trusted relationships with youth workers who understand and support them.
The Youth Club Dictionary brings this to life by highlighting something that is often overlooked: the unique language and sense of belonging that develop within these spaces.
The project also raises awareness of a much wider issue facing young people across the UK.
Since 2010, approximately 1,200 youth clubs have closed across the country!
Every closure represents more than the loss of a building. It can mean the loss of a safe space, positive opportunities, friendships and trusted adults who provide guidance and support during some of the most important years of a young person's life.
For Hideaway, which has been supporting young people in Moss Side and the surrounding communities since 1965, this message is particularly important. We see first-hand the difference that consistent, relationship-based youth work can make. Having somewhere to belong, someone to talk to and opportunities to explore new experiences can have a lasting impact on a young person's confidence, wellbeing and future.
The campaign is also supported by MOBO-winning rapper DC3, a former youth club member, who has released a track and accompanying music video inspired by the language featured in the dictionary.
The music celebrates the creativity and individuality of young people while helping to share the campaign's message with a wider audience.
We are incredibly proud of our young people for contributing to an initiative that celebrates youth culture while drawing attention to the importance of protecting youth services for future generations. Being involved in a national campaign alongside JD Sports, BBC Children in Need and other youth clubs is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the voices of young people from our community.
A huge thank you to JD Sports and BBC Children in Need for inviting Hideaway to be part of this project and for helping to shine a spotlight on the vital role youth clubs continue to play.
Find out more, explore the Youth Club Dictionary, watch DC3's music video and support the campaign by visiting:
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