Jon Wright

Felixstowe youth charity Level Two has opened The Seagull, a £228,000 youth base made from four refurbished shipping containers. The facility provides communal, accessible and creative spaces, including music and DJ facilities, for people aged seven to 25, supplementing the charity’s existing centre. Its expansion contrasts with financial pressures on Suffolk’s charity sector, where reduced public funding, the end of pandemic-era support, rising living costs and declining donations have contributed to service cuts and closures. The Suffolk Community Foundation reported that charity income fell by £33m and expenditure by £62m in 2023-24, while demand for support remained high.

A two-day literacy event at the University of Suffolk brought together hundreds of primary school pupils to encourage reading for pleasure. Authors, illustrators and educators ran creative activities, with university chancellor and children's writer Zeb Soanes leading a reading from his Gaspard the Fox series. The event formed part of the Born & Read campaign, supported by local institutions and sponsors, amid concerns from the National Literacy Trust about declining enjoyment of reading among children. Teachers and organisers highlighted the campaign's role in inspiring creativity and boosting confidence in young readers.

Suffolk’s BME Business Awards opened nominations, highlighting the economic and cultural contributions of minority business owners across the county. Organisers and supporters emphasised the importance of celebrating diversity, encouraging new entrepreneurs, and promoting visible role models. The awards will be presented in November at the University of Suffolk, with support from BSC Multicultural Services and Suffolk New College across multiple categories recognising business and community achievements.

Students from schools in Suffolk, Essex, Bournemouth and Canada were recognised for creative projects addressing discrimination as part of the Dora Love Prize, inspired by Holocaust survivor Dora Love. Northgate High School won the overall award, with other schools acknowledged for regional wins and special categories. Participants heard from survivor Maurice Blik and reflected on lessons about intolerance, representation and empowerment. Displays included plays, boardgames, models and research projects, with speakers emphasising the importance of remembering the Holocaust and encouraging young people to challenge discrimination.

A youth initiative in Ipswich called Urban Campfire brings boys aged 14 to 19 together for communal cooking, music production and creative activities designed to build confidence and community. Run at AMPP Studio and supported by Suffolk County Council, the 19‑week programme fosters social connection through shared tasks such as preparing food and collaborating on a music EP. Participants and leaders highlight increased confidence, new friendships and personal growth, with an end‑of‑project showcase scheduled for August.

A BBC and Latitude Festival competition invites children aged seven to eleven from the East of England to submit poems on the theme of generations for the festival’s 20th anniversary. Six finalists, one from each participating BBC local radio area, will read their poems on the Waterfront Stage at Henham Park, with one selected for a backstage tour. Poet Luke Wright and several BBC presenters will serve as judges, highlighting the festival’s two-decade commitment to celebrating literature and young creative talent. Entries close on 24 April.