Coca-cola Europacific Partners x UK Youth
Our long-standing partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners is built on shared values, open communication, and a deep understanding of what it takes to create lasting impact. With multi-year funding secured, this relationship is a powerful example of how long-term investment can drive real change since 2018.
Now in its third year, the Building Connections programme—delivered by nine trusted youth organisations—continues to grow and evolve. Its light-touch, high-impact model not only reaches more young people, but also generates vital unrestricted funding. This approach directly supports CCEP’s goal of making a measurable difference in the lives of young people across the UK.
4,356
young people reached in the last 3 years through Building Connections.
1,184
opportunities connected by youth workers for young people.
70
colleagues volunteering across 3 years.
The Building Connections Programme
UK Youth’s Building Connections programme, delivered in partnership with Coca‑Cola Europacific Partners, strengthens youth organisations by equipping youth workers as Community Link Workers.
These trained workers build partnerships with local employers and facilitate inclusive events—ranging from job fairs to workshops—where young people aged 16–25 can engage directly with businesses and explore employment pathways.
As a result, the programme has supported thousands of young people, bridging the gap between youth and opportunity while generating stronger, employer-led pathways into meaningful careers.
Together, we’ve created over 5,500 employability connections, delivered hundreds of skills-building experiences, and supported 123 young people into paid work. As the partnership reaches its third year, we’re proud to see sustainable models now embedded across youth organisations — proof that long-term collaboration creates lasting impact.
I was instantly inspired — witnessing the challenges young people face firsthand, and seeing how transformative the right support can be, made me and my colleagues committed for the long haul.”
Holly Firmin, Senior Community Partnerships Manager GB at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.
Building Connection success story
Callum, a young man with Autism, has taken a major step forward toward his career goals through the Building Connections programme.
Callum had previously only vaguely imagined a future in youth work; however, with support from Young Leicester, Callum is now a volunteer Youth Worker for a group of young carers.
He helps with transport and activities, giving the children a chance to learn, have fun, and enjoy being kids alongside their caring responsibilities.
“I liked volunteering at the young carers group because it’s fun and allows me to help mainstream young people, which is a challenge for me. Also, I think Deb is a good leader, and we plan a lot of fun activities for the young people. Volunteering will give me the skills to get my dream job.“
Feeling inspired?
Interested in partnering with us to help change young lives? We’d love to hear from you, and our Partnerships Team are on hand and happy to answer any questions you may have. Let’s