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.
“Young people need more opportunities to get involved in.”
- Brad Richardson
Celebrating Stanley / September 30th, 2025
Thomas's Celebration of Stanley
Thomas was born in Shotley Bridge Hospital, but grew up in Shield Row, one of the villages surrounding Stanley. He is 28 years old and was once a Stanley Town Councillor. Read his thoughts on Stanley's present and future here...
Kye's Kick Off / May 9th, 2025
Lena, Kyle, Alex and Noah - Boldon School
Lena, Kyle, Alex and Noah have put their heart and soul into organising Kye’s Kick-Off and so much more. From planning the big match to running fundraising events behind the scenes, they’ve gone all out to support Kye and make a real difference. This isn’t just about football — it’s about community, love, and coming together for a cause that truly matters.
Self-Belief and Emotional Wellbeing / May 11th, 2022
Aspirations and Future Planning / May 11th, 2022
Teenage Girls’ Emotional Wellbeing & Aspirations Programme
We successfully delivered a twelve-week programme to support vulnerable teenage girls in Stanley, in an area of high socio-economic deprivation. Our project focused on early interventions to prevent longer term mental health issues, particularly with those who are suffering due to the impact of COVID-19.