Here are some of the recent projects that show the impact of our partnership:
Debdale Park, Mansfield
Debdale Park is a hub for football, rugby and cricket enthusiasts of all ages and genders. Over time, the facilities had begun to become outdated with worn exteriors threatening to dampen the community spirit.
Working alongside local young people, VIY helped revitalise the site. The exterior was repainted, giving the building a fresh and inviting look, while a professional artist collaborated with the group to create a striking mural celebrating Mansfield’s proud mining heritage and the parks three core sports.
GAP’s Support: We provided a scaffold tower, enabling the team to safely access the building and bring the mural to life as full scale.
Impact:
- 27 young people took part, gaining hands-on experience in painting and teamwork, while achieving entry-level City & Guilds accreditations. boosting their work readiness and access to employment pathways.
- Local residents now enjoy a vibrant, welcoming space that strengthens community bonds
- The park’s income and long-term sustainability have improved, securing it’s future as a central hub for sports and activities in the community
GRIT Studios, Stockport
GRIT Studios is a creative hub in Stockport town centre, transforming a derelict 4,800 sq ft building into a thriving space for local artists and entrepreneurs. Since opening in 2021, it has supported local jobs, fostered creativity, and brought renewed energy to the community.
With VIY’s guidance, young people collaborated with skilled volunteers to construct stud wall frameworks for a new recording studio, podcast room and creative pods, and supported internal redecoration works.
GAP’s Support: We provided a pallet truck, allowing heavy materials to be moved safely and efficiently. This minimised manual handling risks and freed the team to focus on learning and construction.
Impact:
- New creative pods and a recording studio give GRIT members the space to collaborate, innovate, and grow their businesses
- The project strengthens Stockport’s creative economy and ensures the building remains a vibrant community hub
Balderton Scout Hut, Mansfield
Scouts worldwide help young people develop life skills, make friends and become active citizens. The Balderton Scout Hut aimed to expand its reach, involve young people in shaping activities and make a bigger local impact.
VIY worked with local young people to repair and refresh the interior main hall, and design and install a scout hut-themed mural on the exterior wall.
GAP’s Support: We provided a scaffold tower, enabling safe access for the mural’s creation and transforming the building into a vibrant, welcoming landmark.
Project Feedback: “The project proposed went beyond our expectations of a covered outdoor area, the group also painted the inside walls and some of the exterior panelling as well as providing us with a magnificent mural depicting a Scout-themed image.” - Fiona - Scouts Hut Leader
A Partnership That Delivers Real Impact
From sports parks to creative studios and Scouts huts, GAP’s partnership with VIY reflects our ongoing commitment to social value. By providing practical support, tools, and infrastructure, we help unlock the potential of local projects, empowering young people, strengthening communities and creating spaces where everyone can thrive.
Together, we’re proving that when businesses invest in communities, the benefits are visible, lasting and inspiring.