Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their potential, build confidence and feel supported as they grow up. But for many children and young people, financial pressures and circumstances outside their control can make accessing those opportunities more difficult.
This is where Manchester Youth Zone (MYZ) comes in.
Over the past year, Antonelli has been donating gelato from our training days and recipe development sessions to MYZ. The idea began when our apprentice got chatting to an apprentice at MYZ, sparking the idea of a collaboration that would allow our gelato to be enjoyed by young people at the centre.
Recently, members of the Antonelli team visited MYZ to learn more about the organisation, meet the people behind its work and see its facilities first-hand. We were incredibly impressed by the quality of the facilities, the enthusiasm of the staff and the dedication that goes into making MYZ such a valuable resource for young people in the community.
Based in Harpurhey, Manchester Youth Zone provides a safe, welcoming space for young people aged 8-19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs. Through a wide range of activities, support and trusted relationships, MYZ helps young people build friendships, explore their interests and develop skills that can support them into adulthood.
A place to belong, learn and grow
Manchester Youth Zone offers far more than somewhere to spend an evening. Its facilities and activities give young people the chance to try something new, discover their talents and build relationships in a positive environment.
From sport and music to cooking and gaming, there are opportunities for young people with different interests, abilities and needs. Alongside these activities, MYZ’s youth workers build trusted relationships, helping young people navigate challenges and access further support when they need it.
Nutritious meals are also provided, ensuring young people who need them have access to food while taking part in sessions. Young people are asked for just a 50p voluntary contribution towards their visit. This is intended to help introduce the idea of contribution and participation, rather than create a financial barrier to accessing the facilities and support on offer.
The impact is significant. During 2025-26, Manchester Youth Zone welcomed 3,179 young people, recording 36,879 visits and delivering 686 sessions across its provision. The organisation also provided more than 28,000 free hot meals.
These figures represent more than sessions delivered or meals served. They reflect young people making friends, gaining confidence, finding a trusted adult to talk to and discovering opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach.
Why supporting young people matters
For many young people, access to activities, experiences and additional support can make a real difference to their future. MYZ works to reduce barriers linked to financial hardship and social disadvantage, while supporting young people with a range of needs. Its work helps young people build resilience, develop life skills and raise their aspirations for education and employment.
According to MYZ, 93% of its members live in the UK’s 20% most deprived neighbourhoods. Affordable youth provision is therefore essential, giving young people a safe place to go and access to opportunities their families might otherwise struggle to afford.
The need for this support continues to grow, while funding remains a challenge. It costs Manchester Youth Zone approximately £1.5 million each year to run its services and support local children and young people.
Sustaining this provision relies on support from individuals, businesses, trusts and foundations that recognise the importance of investing in the next generation.
A shared belief in the next generation
As one of the UK’s remaining family businesses manufacturing ice cream cones, Antonelli understands the importance of looking ahead and investing in the future.
Supporting the next generation is something that resonates with us as a family business. Every young person should have the opportunity to develop their skills, discover what they enjoy and build a positive future, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Our recent visit gave us a greater understanding of the work taking place at Manchester Youth Zone and the people who make it possible. We are pleased to shine a light on an organisation supporting young people in our wider community and helping them build the confidence, skills and resilience they need for the future.
How you can support Manchester Youth Zone
Community support plays an important role in helping MYZ keep its doors open and its activities accessible. Donations can help sustain youth sessions, provide nutritious meals, fund activity materials and maintain a safe space where young people can feel welcome.
If you would like to find out more about Manchester Youth Zone, the work it does or how you can support its young people, visit its website: Manchester Youth Zone: Supporting young people in a safe, fun space!
Every contribution can help create more opportunities for young people to learn, connect and thrive.
Find out more about Manchester Youth Zone and how to donate.
At Antonelli, we believe that investing in the next generation helps build a stronger future for everyone.