Handelsbanken expands commitment to young people across Lancashire
Local relationship Bank becomes patron of Inspire (Chorley) and Vault (Preston) Youth Zones, strengthening support for Greater Lancashire Youth Zones and young people across the region.
Greater Lancashire Youth Zones has announced that Handelsbanken is expanding its partnership to support young people across the region. The Bank’s branch in Preston is now becoming a patron of Inspire Youth Zone in Chorley and Vault Youth Zone in Preston, alongside its existing support of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone.
This expanded commitment means Handelsbanken is now backing the collective Greater Lancashire Youth Zones network, helping thousands of young people access safe spaces, trusted adults and life-changing opportunities.
Greater Lancashire Youth Zones exists to level the playing field for young people, ensuring that cost, background or circumstance never become barriers to opportunity. Across Chorley, Preston and Blackburn, the Youth Zones provide affordable access to activities, mentoring, meals and youth work that builds confidence, resilience and real-life skills.
The partnership with Handelsbanken will directly support the delivery of high-quality youth provision, helping each centre continue to reach young people who need a place to have fun, but may also need support, belonging and positive role models.
Janine Blythe, CEO of Inspire Youth Zone, said:
“Partnerships like this are about more than funding. They are about belief. Handelsbanken understands that every young person deserves opportunity and a place where they feel seen, supported and valued. Their decision to expand their support across Lancashire means more young people will have access to trusted adults, safe spaces and experiences that help them grow in confidence and believe in their future. We are incredibly proud to have them standing alongside us.”
During a recent visit to Inspire Youth Zone, Handelsbanken representatives unveiled their patron plaque and met young people and staff to see first-hand the impact of their support.
Niclas Ziden, Branch Manager of Handelsbanken Preston, said:
“As a relationship bank rooted in the community of Lancashire, supporting local initiatives is a key part of our values and commitment to the area. We’re delighted to be expanding our support to Inspire and Vault Youth Zones and look forward to seeing even more young people thrive through the incredible services the charities provide.”
Greater Lancashire Youth Zones operates as part of the OnSide network, delivering affordable youth provision at scale. Membership costs just £5 per year and sessions are 50p, or free if needed, ensuring no young person is turned away due to cost. Behind every visit is a much larger investment in trained youth workers, facilities and safeguarding, only made possible through support just like this.
This strengthened partnership reflects a shared commitment to building stronger communities, supporting young people’s wellbeing and creating brighter futures across Lancashire.
