Libby's Celebration of Stanley
I’ve discovered that there’s a lot more history in Stanley than I ever realised. What really stood out to me is how much people went through in the past. Every part of Stanley has its own story, but many of them went through the same struggles—especially during the mining days. I was shocked to learn that young kids lost their lives in the mining disaster. It’s awful to think that people my age were expected to work in such dangerous conditions. It makes me feel like we should be more grateful for the lives we have now, especially when you think about what those young people went through.
Right now, I wouldn’t say Stanley is in a great place. There isn’t much communication between people—it just feels like a boring town with not much going on. In the past, there was more connection and people worked together more. I think we could bring some of that community spirit back if we really made the effort.
I’d like there to be more things to do in Stanley, and more ways for people to connect—like cinemas, sports, or even just spaces for walks and socialising without having to rely on social media. I want to actually get out, meet people, and do things in real life
“I want to actually get out, meet people. and do things in real life.”
- Libby Herdman
Youth Social Action / September 27th, 2025
Wellbeing and the Arts / September 27th, 2025
Celebrating Stanley / September 27th, 2025
Oxhill Nursery School Green Leaders Project
The ‘Oxhill Green Leaders’ project involved twenty five children from Oxhill Nursery School, in Stanley on a across the spring and summer of 2025.The sessions enabled the young people to become ‘Green Leaders’ and actively engage in ecology and sustainability based activities. We were also delighted that the success of the programme was recognised by the award of a Silver Medal from 'Northumbria in Bloom'.
Wellbeing and the Arts / April 24th, 2026
Collaboration in Action: Bridging Cultures and Building Self-Belief
Read DBN's latest blog on our ongoing collaboration with Noriko Matsubara (Noriko Art), discussing a Fusion of Art, Culture, and Wellbeing!
Aspirations and Future Planning / July 1st, 2024
Consett "Bridging the Gap Youth Employability Programme."
The Consett "Bridging the Gap Youth Employability Programme" was kindly supported by Newcastle Building Society via the Tyne and Wear Community Foundation, and The Albert Hunt Trust. As part of this the students consulted the young people of the Consett Area as part of the preparation of the Consett Area Neighbourhood Plan..