The Hive is more than an arts venue — nestled in the centre of Shrewsbury Town, it’s a lifeline for young people seeking confidence, connection and creativity. As a registered charity, The Hive is proudly launching The Hive100, a new initiative inviting local people to help sustain the meaningful work that changes young lives every day.

Marketing Manager Vicki Duckett-Snape explains how the idea emerged:
“During our Save The Hive campaign last summer, so many people asked how they could continue supporting us. We wanted to find a way for our community to support us that was simple, accessible and affordable. The Hive100 is just one of the ways for the community to stand with us, not just in a moment of urgency, but for the long term.”

CEO Katie Jennings shares why this ongoing support means so much:
“The heartfelt donations from our community last summer were a crucial lifeline that allowed us to keep our doors open and our dedicated team thriving. They gave us the vital grace period we needed to pursue additional funding and continue our mission. As with all charities, project grants come with deadlines and regular donations are essential. Your generous support empowers us to plan future projects with confidence, such as our new Alternative Provision programme for Shropshire.This programme provides a safe and creative space for children and young people who struggle with traditional education and supports those with complex needs in a non-academic environment. Projects like this need a solid home in Shrewsbury – for young people across Shropshire. Knowing that people want to walk alongside us and the young people we support is incredibly inspiring.”

Become part of The Hive100
A monthly donation of just £12 will make you one of the first 100 supporters to join a new circle of regular givers. Becoming a member of The Hive100 makes you a key architect in this exciting part of The Hive’s journey to:

* Empower young lives through our vibrant and creative wellbeing projects, such as Amplify, where local young people explore their musical potential. With support from industry experts, we’re building skills and confidence for a brighter future!

* Provide safe, inclusive spaces either at our venue, or within our community where young people can belong and grow.

* Respond to rising needs around mental health and isolation. 45% of young people and 48% of students have reported that anxiety has affected their day-to-day lives. In England, there was a significant increase in new mental health referrals for under-17s in 2023-24, more than doubling since before the pandemic. (https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/news-and-features/latest-news/detail/2024/08/27/shocking-rise-in-children-needing-treatment-for-anxiety).

* Build a stronger, more resilient future for children and young people in our communities. 

As a Founder of The Hive100:
* Your name will be proudly displayed on our website as a Founding Member of The Hive100.

* You will receive exclusive updates and stories showing behind the scenes at The Hive. We will spotlight participants and projects and share with you how your donation directly impacts the lives of young individuals.

* You can collect a stunning custom-designed canvas tote bag as a token of thanks from The Hive team. 

* Priority invites to exclusive showcase events where you will witness first hand the impact TheHive100 has on our charity.

Why It Matters
For many young people, The Hive is the one place they feel understood, welcomed and able to express who they are. Every workshop, every conversation, every creative spark is made possible by people who believe in them.

This is your chance to stand with them.

Be one of the first 100. Help build a more creative, connected and confident future for young people in Shropshire.

“The Hive is a step closer to home.” – Luna Jones, Hive participant and young trustee. 

Join The Hive100 today at hiveonline.org.uk

Support Young Lives. Give to The Hive.

This winter, The Hive is proud to announce the launch of a dynamic new Alternative Provision programme aimed at providing a safe, creative space for children and young people who face challenges with traditional education. This initiative offers a flexible, non-academic environment designed to support those with complex needs, including attendance difficulties, SEMH (social, emotional, mental health) needs, anxiety, or care experience.

The programme and delivery timeframe will be tailored specifically for children with EHCPs or EOTAS packages, who are not attending formal education or are struggling with school attendance and social skills. The Hive’s innovative approach fosters engagement, confidence, and resilience by offering a relaxed, vibrant setting where young people can explore their interests through arts, music, photography, and design.

“Our goal is to create an environment where every child and young person can find their place in the world,” said Katie Jennings, CEO of The Hive. “We recognise the importance of individuality, diversity, and personal growth. Our programme is about more than just learning — it’s about developing identity, building healthy relationships, and gaining the confidence to thrive.”

The programme offers flexible support sessions, ranging from 2 to 4 hour sessions, tailored to individual needs. Whether through one-to-one mentoring or small group activities, each learner benefits from experienced staff who adopt a mentor-style approach, fostering trust and exploration. Activities include DJing, singing, songwriting, recording, photography, graphic design, and printmaking — all interwoven with core academic subjects where appropriate.

By encouraging self-awareness, communication, and emotional development, The Hive aims to reignite a love for learning outside of traditional classroom settings. The programme supports young people in overcoming barriers to engagement, reducing anxiety, and nurturing their personal and social skills, fostering a sense of achievement and belonging.

For more information about The Hive’s alternative provision program and how it can support children and young people in Shropshire, please contact Amy Smith, Youth Engagement Lead: projects@hiveonline.org.uk.

For press enquiries please contact Vicki Duckett-Snape: vicki@hiveonline.org.uk

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