Brad's Celebration of Stanley

Youth Social Action / Celebrating Stanley / September 1st, 2025

Brad's Celebration of Stanley

I learned that the mines used to play a big role for Stanley, and Stanley was well known because it was the centre for coal mining. In the middle of the Industrial Revolution it was really significant because it was the most reliable place to get coal and fuel for all the machinery. Mining as a job was harmful to all the people, but it was good because it gave people jobs and it gave lots of people a chance to make money.

The history of the town isn't celebrated as much. It's like it's been forgotten which is sad. There'd be more pride in the town if people had a more developed understanding of it's history.

We should take the spirit of the past to the present. I was watching the videos of Front Street and everyone was coming together for parades and there were thousands of people all together running up and down the street playing music and having fun. It would be better for the town if people actually cared more and had more stuff to do. Young people need more opportunities to get involved in because it doesn't really stand in Stanley currently. 

Find out more

“Young people need more opportunities to get involved in.”

- Brad Richardson

Celebrating Stanley / November 19th, 2025

Digital Inclusion / November 19th, 2025

Kelly's Celebration of Stanley Podcast

Kelly has always lived and worked in the Stanley area, and is very proud to be from the town. She feels that there is lots of potential in the town, and to get the town back to where it once would not take a great deal of investment. Listen to her Celebration of Stanley Podcast to hear more..

The Activity Den - Transformation

Self-Belief and Emotional Wellbeing / May 18th, 2019

The Activity Den Transformation

This is an extended version of our film outlining the transformation of The Den activity centre in Tanfield Lea. Over a three month period we held weekly sessions and made plans, for transforming this amazing space.

Self-Belief and Emotional Wellbeing / August 22nd, 2022

The Meadow Well Teenage | Community Links & Aspirations Programme

Building Self-Belief CIO delivered a twelve-week programme for ten Year 9 girls, selected by the Head of Year, at Norham High School. Our Wellbeing Programme has helped the girls learn how to build better friendships, have a better understanding of how others are feeling and become integral members of the local Meadow Well Community.