Project name: CashBack Unlocked
Age range: 10-18 years
CashBack Unlocked is a creative youth work programme delivered by Station House Media Unit (shmu) for children and young people aged 10 to 18 living in Aberdeen City’s communities facing the greatest disadvantage. Delivered over three years, the project will engage 775 young people through a combination of school-based and community-based activity. Creative media, including film, podcasting, music and radio, is used as the core method for engagement, learning and relationship-building.
Young people take part in hands-on creative media activity, learning how to plan, produce and share their own content. This approach helps them build confidence, communication skills and teamwork, while giving them meaningful ways to express themselves and contribute positively to their communities.
Delivery includes both short-term engagement and longer-term support. Younger participants are supported through creative activity during key transition points, helping them build confidence and connections. Those in the senior phase can access more intensive support, including accredited learning, skills development and tailored pathways towards positive destinations.
Participants can progress into shmu’s year-round Youth Media programmes, where they continue to create content, build peer networks and develop a strong sense of belonging. Holiday activity provides continuity during school breaks, when support can be limited.
Grounded in trauma-informed and relationship-based practice, CashBack Unlocked places young people’s voice, wellbeing and agency at its heart. By combining creative media with consistent support from experienced youth workers, the project reduces isolation, supports informed choices, diverts young people away from risky behaviour and helps them build more positive futures.
Local authority areas:
Aberdeen City
