The Joined Up Institute Pilot Kicks Off

On 30 October, the Joined Up Institute Pilot Programme launched in Leicester — marking the start of an exciting new chapter in cross-sector collaboration supporting young people across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

Representatives from over 100 organisations came together at Leicester Tigers Rugby Stadium for the first event, Building Community and Relationships. The day brought together individuals from across education, health, youth work, sport, social care, housing and beyond — all with a shared goal: to bridge the gaps between services and create better outcomes for young people.

Local artists Jake Thompson, Dulzo the Great, Ezra Mbogo, and AJ brought energy and creativity to the day, setting an inspiring tone that reflected the community’s spirit. Participants also heard from Elaine Pantling, Assistant Mayor for Children and Young People, and Hoor Pathan, a young co-producer in the development of the initiative and last year’s Joined Up Summit.

Now seeing the Institute come to life in her home city, Hoor’s words struck a powerful chord — reminding everyone why this work matters and what’s possible when communities truly come together.

“This Institute is about connection. About breaking down silos between sectors and building relationships rooted in trust, understanding, and a shared purpose. Having been co-designed together with young people and partners from various youth-facing sectors across Leicester, it’s about professionals, communities and young people learning from one another; so that when a young person in Leicester reaches out, they’re met by a joined-up, preventative, human response.  

That’s why I’m here – because I’ve seen what happens when people come together across boundaries. It’s not always neat, but it’s powerful. It’s people-powered change in action.  

My invitation to you today is bring your expertise, but also your curiosity. Come ready to listen, to share, to challenge, and to celebrate what Leicester already does brilliantly, while being brave enough to explore where things could be better  

Because this isn’t just a professional development programme. It’s a movement to join things up for young people… to make sure every young person in our city feels seen, supported and believed in. To create lasting, embedded, and sustainable change. 

So here’s to Leicester: a city that proves what’s possible when people come together. And here’s to all of you: the ones joining things up to shape a future that truly works for our young people.”

The momentum has begun — and this is just the first milestone in a year-long journey of learning, partnership, and positive change. If you’re interested in learning more about the Joined Up Institute, you can sign up to our Joined Up Network.