Why it matters: Youth social action often goes unrecognised, with conversations typically focusing on problems facing young people rather than the power they hold to create change. The Ipswich Index shifts that narrative by amplifying the everyday contributions young people make to building connection and community.
The details: The Ipswich Index is a searchable, filterable online directory of youth-led projects across Ipswich and the surrounding area. The hybrid platform allows anyone to add their project to the live hub, discover what others are doing and get inspired. It also features a downloadable publication showcasing the most inspiring youth-led stories.
Submissions are welcome from young people leading their own initiatives, such as organising litter picks, offering peer support to someone being bullied, or championing changes to local community facilities, as well as from organisations that support youth social action.
What they're saying: Stephen Skeet, Director of Partnerships and Business Development at Volunteering Matters, said: "So often we talk about young people in the context of issues, challenges and problems and what we as adults should do about that. We hardly ever talk to the power young people have, the contributions they make every day and the importance of that to building of connection and community. The index aims to be a space that changes that discussion through the eyes of young people's social action."
The bigger picture: The Index exists to prove what is possible when young people lead. By bringing these stories together in one place, the platform aims to help projects grow, partners connect, and new ideas spark into life across Ipswich and the surrounding area.
Run by the #iwill movement, the initiative positions Ipswich as "the town of social action" and seeks to equip young people with the tools to create change and be part of something bigger.
The bottom line: The Ipswich Index celebrates youth-led action that might otherwise go unnoticed, creating a space where young changemakers can gain recognition, share their work with the wider community, and inspire others to take action.
