A HERITAGE trail for St Helens to be created by young people is among projects awarded Historic England funding to uncover and celebrate overlooked stories.

The Hidden Histories of St Helens is among 21 schemes being supported across England.

The History in the Making programme empowers under-represented young people to explore and celebrate their local hidden histories, finding original ways to commemorate them.

The programme aims to improve young people’s wellbeing, from increasing connection to and pride in their local place, to gaining skills and social confidence.

Historic England said that after taking part in previous History in the Making projects in 2023/24, young people felt more confident, developed new skills and learned something new about their local area.

They also met new people and 93 per cent felt motivated to take part in more activities in their community.

Following an open call out in July, Historic England received nearly 100 applications for the scheme and was guided in the decision-making process by Historic England’s Young Advisers.

Twenty-one grants of up to £15,000, a total of £261,000, will fund projects over the 18 months starting in January 2025, with the Hidden Histories of St Helens among them.

These projects will provide new opportunities for young people to discover, engage and connect with their local stories and ensure the history that matters to them is remembered. Using different artforms, from murals and art works to immersive walking trails and theatre productions, young people will decide who and what to celebrate and how best to do it.

About The Hidden Histories of St Helens 

Young people will research and create a heritage trail of St Helens working with art, alongside local heritage partners.  They’ll then use their findings to curate a mural and new interpretation on their building.

Ellie Djerir, head of participation programmes at Historic England, said: “These new History in the Making projects will reveal fascinating new perspectives and explore forgotten local histories. I’m thrilled to see 21 very different projects across England, all with an emphasis on creativity and local identity.  

“These projects help young people to come together, building their sense of pride in their local place and enabling them to gain new skills and confidence. Heritage means something different to every community and I can’t wait to see the creative final place markers produced by these young people.” 

 

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of St Helens. Please get in touch at simon.mulligan@newsquest.co.uk