Plans are underway for the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Space summer programme 2026, which last year saw over 9,000 young people across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent taking part in a range of fun activities.
The programme, for young people aged 8 to 17, brings together public, voluntary and private sector organisations to provide positive activities for young people during the school holidays.
Partially funded by proceeds of crime, Space aims to help increase young people’s skills, improve their health and wellbeing and create opportunities, while also aiming to reduce levels of anti-social behaviour (ASB).
During summer 2025:
- 9,219 young people took part in the Space programme
- 2,429 activities were provided including sports, arts, crafts, and youth activities
- 23,480 attendances were made in total, equating to 46,988 hours of engagement
As well as activities that are open for all to enjoy, Space also funds targeted activities for young people who are vulnerable or live in an area subject to high levels of ASB.
Since its re-launch in 2015, the Space initiative has contributed to a sustained reduction in youth-related ASB during the school summer holidays. Reports to Staffordshire Police have fallen by 81.9% since 2016, from 1,310 incidents in 2016 to 237 in 2025. 2025 saw a 4.4% reduction, with 248 incidents recorded in 2024.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams said: “Work is well underway for this year’s Space programme, which promises a diverse range of activities for young people to get stuck into over the summer, meeting new friends and trying something new.
“The programme simply wouldn’t be possible without all the partners who come together to facilitate the Space activities, which also help to reduce anti-social behaviour and make a positive difference in our communities.
“Last year’s programme was a huge success, and I look forward to seeing just as many young people enjoying Space this summer.”
Activities will be uploaded in the coming weeks. Sign up for all the latest event and activity updates: https://staffordshirespace.uk/.