About us

People standing People standing

Our core aim is to build stronger communities by building self-belief in marginalised young people, and people in our community who need support in times of change.

How we began

We were founded in April 2018 and formally launched by the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham. Since then, we have significantly improved the mental health, self-esteem and life chances of over 11,500 vulnerable young people across the North East, particularly those living in the bottom 20% on the Multiple Deprivation Index.

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Identifying a need

We have long recognised the challenges facing people and communities across the North East, and recent evidence continues to highlight significant inequalities in health, wealth and opportunities to thrive. The report County Durham and Tees Valley: Health, Wealth and (Unequal) Opportunities to Thrive, by County Durham Community Foundation and Health Equity North, highlights the scale of these challenges.

While it would be easy to feel despondent about the region, we choose to be a genuine force for good. We are committed to helping more young people and communities overcome the challenges they face and build more fulfilling lives.

Read the Health, Wealth and Opportunities report →
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What we do

We deliver a range of programmes designed to give young people opportunities to build confidence and self-belief, develop new skills and realise their potential. Our Wellbeing, Employability, Heritage and Environmental Programmes provide different ways for young people to learn, participate and connect with their communities.

Through practical activities and experiences, we help young people discover new interests, develop a sense of purpose and recognise their strengths. Our programmes create opportunities to learn, gain experience and develop skills that can support young people in their future.

Discover our programmes →
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There is always something happening at Building Self-Belief. Explore our latest news, upcoming events, achievements and newsletters to keep up with what we are doing and the difference our work is making.


In the news

We are proud to see the achievements of the young people and communities we work with recognised in the wider community. Our In the News section brings together media coverage, interviews and features highlighting our projects, partnerships, achievements and the difference our work is making across the North East.

From local and regional news to radio and television features, explore the stories that showcase the people and work behind Building Self-Belief.

See us in the news →
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Our Events

Our events bring people together to take part, celebrate and support the work we do. From community activities and programme events to celebrations of our young people’s achievements and fundraising events, there are lots of ways to get involved.

Whether you want to participate, show your support, meet others in the community or help us raise funds, there is something for everyone.

See our upcoming events →
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Our Awards

We are proud to celebrate the recognition our work and achievements have received through awards, nominations and other acknowledgements. Every achievement reflects the dedication of our young people, volunteers, team members, partners and supporters who help make our work possible.

Our awards are something we’re delighted to share with the young people and communities we work alongside, celebrating their contribution and the difference we can make together.

Celebrate our achievements →
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Our Newsletters

Our newsletters bring together stories, updates and achievements from across our programmes, projects and community. They’re a chance to hear more about what we’ve been doing, celebrate the people involved and share the impact our work is making.

We love keeping young people, supporters and the wider community connected to Building Self-Belief and sharing the moments that make our work special.

Read our latest newsletters →
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Meet our team

We would be nothing without our amazing Building Self-Belief team. These are the people that are pushing for positive change within our community and making what we do possible. 

Click below to get to know our team a bit more. 

Meet our team
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Want to know more?

If you want to know more information about who Building Self-Belief are, or are interested in working with us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by clicking the button below and our team will do everything they can to help.

Get in touch