Leicester's New Parks estate to be subject of new Historic England project

Young people living in Leicester's New Parks estate will lead a new £15,000 community project looking at the area's history. The project is one of 21 being funded by Historic England.

The organisation said: "The history of the New Parks council estate in Leicester has largely gone unexplored. This much-needed project will celebrate community histories as chosen and researched by local young people."

The 21 new History in the Making projects around England aim to empower under-represented young people to explore previously hidden stories and celebrate their local areas. What form the projects will take will be up to the young people and could include murals, theatre productions and walking tours.

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Historic England said: "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. After taking part in previous History in the Making projects, young people felt more confident, developed new skills and learned something new about their local area.

"They also met new people and 93 per cent felt motivated to take part in more activities in their local community."

The 21 projects, which will each receive £15,000 in funding, were chosen from 100 applicants and the decision about which to go ahead with was made in consultation with Historic England’s Young Advisers team.

The projects will all start in January 2025 and take place over the following 18 months. Historic England said: "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."

Ellie Djerir, head of participation programmes at Historic England, said: “These new History in the Making projects will reveal fascinating new perspectives and explore forgotten local histories. I’m thrilled to see 21 very different projects across England, all with an emphasis on creativity and local identity.

“These projects help young people to come together, building their sense of pride in their local place and enabling them to gain new skills and confidence. Heritage means something different to every community and I can’t wait to see the creative final place markers produced by these young people.”