Championing Salford’s young people

We’re a proud patron donor of Salford Youth Zone (SYZ), a welcoming space that opened its doors in July 2025 to the young people of Salford. Our Transaction Team clerk and long time Salford Youth Zone Volunteer Josie Evason shares her experiences on giving back to her local community.

Members at SYZ can benefit from access to youth workers whilst taking part in over 20 creative and sporting activities and making new friends. Located in Crescent Salford, it is open for young people aged 8-19, or up to 25 for those with additional needs, and membership is free.

Josie said:

“After attending an away day at the youth zone in Gorton, I felt compelled to continue this work and decided to volunteer at SYZ in my spare time. Now, I volunteer four hours of my time every week as part of the junior sessions at SYZ.

“I was born and raised in Salford, and I wanted to give something back to the city I love. Salford made me what I am. The children at the SYZ seem drawn to me. They always seem to look forward to my visits and playing numerous board and card games, from Snakes and Ladders to crafts and any activities that allow them to have fun in a safe space.

“For some children, they might not have anyone to play with at home for one reason or another, so having someone like a youth support worker, such as myself, means the world to them, but even more so, having a place such as Salford Youth Zone, which opens doors and provides them a chance to enjoy themselves, while forging new friendships.

“It’s not just the children who have made me feel welcome, but the rest of the team at SYZ as well. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’re greeted by a sea of smiling faces, each as helpful and kind as the last. These remarkable people have helped shape SYZ into the place it is today; it’s no wonder the children feel so at home here.”

Amanda Coverdale, senior philanthropy manager, said:

“Josie’s work as a volunteer Youth Support Worker at SYZ shows just how powerful it is when different generations come together. Josie and our wider team bring life experience, patience, and diverse perspectives that help young people feel understood and supported as they navigate their own challenges. Those everyday conversations – where a young person feels heard, guided, and encouraged – can shape confidence, choices, and futures.

“We are deeply grateful for the support from the whole team at Muse; without partners like them, we simply couldn’t continue to provide the safe, inspiring, and life-changing spaces our community relies on. Thank You.”

Part of the purpose of SYZ is to help young people build confidence and remind them that they are cared for. This encouragement helps them learn to be respectful toward youth workers and to one another by teaching them patience and fostering a sense of self-worth.

Josie adds:

“Muse is a kind and considerate company – I wish I’d worked here 40 years ago.

“I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact Muse has had – and continues to have – on the Salford community. I’m not only proud to work at Muse, but I also value how it has integrated itself with SYZ and Salford. Muse has built a great reputation, one that has been earned.”

Muse acting as a patron donor stands as an example of how urban regeneration can work in harmony with young people. Designed by and for young people, SYZ has been shaped by their contributions, working alongside architects, designers and brand experts to create an inclusive space which provides somewhere safe to go, something positive to do and someone trusted to talk to.

This is thoughtful regeneration: helping to shape communities today so that future generations can benefit from connections with their peers and with industry, gaining greater opportunities that will set them up for later in life.

By supporting SYZ, Muse has helped create a relaxed, welcoming environment for young people from across Salford. The youth zone is designed to be as inclusive as possible, with quiet and sensory rooms for neurodivergent children, providing a calm, supportive space where they can feel comfortable and fully included in all activities.

The Youth Zone is part of the charity Empower and receives support from Muse, Eric Wright, Salix Homes, and other partners. Together with these organisations, SYZ creates pathways into the built environment through apprenticeships, mentoring, and skills development.