Based at Saltburn Arts and Community Centre, StrHive offers young people from across East Cleveland and Teesside opportunities to make friends, build confidence, and form strong relationships with trusted adults in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Whether it’s through 1-1 support or fun group activities, StrHive helps young people learn valuable life skills and feel part of something positive.
One of those activities is Vagabonding, described by founder of StrHive James Hopper as “a bit like forest school, but more fun.” Running throughout the summer, these outdoor sessions take place in the woods or on the beach, giving young people the chance to try things like den building or cooking over a fire. The focus is on having fun, whilst learning important life skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience.
Last summer, over 270 young people took part in StrHive activities.
StrHive also runs a regular art group called Upstart every Tuesday afternoon, and a music group is being set up for young people aged 14 and over. They'll be able to try out different instruments, including a recently acquired drum kit, and perform on stage. Outside, there’s also a garden where young people can have a go at growing their own plants.
Open to Everyone
Established in 2020 by James Hopper in response to the growing need for family support, youth development, and mental wellbeing across South Tees, StrHive is open to everyone. The sessions are inclusive, welcoming young people and families from all backgrounds for both structured activities and personalised 1-1 support. Most activities and support are completely free, with funding from Tees Valley Combined Authority, local authorities, the National Lottery, and others though they’re always looking for new opportunities.
“We support young people from all walks of life. Some are referred to us by places like The Junction Foundation, which works with young carers, and others come on their own, like a young girl from Guisborough who cares for her mum and comes to us for a bit of time out from her caring role," explains James.
“We also work with a lot of young people living with autism, ADHD or mental health challenges. And by supporting them, we often end up supporting their whole families. We offer practical advice around parenting, communication and wellbeing and if we can’t help directly, we’ll connect families with local services we know and trust.”
Long-Term Relationships
What James is most proud of is the long-term relationships that he builds through StrHive. “We have a young guy who’s just joined the army, something he never thought was possible after being diagnosed with ADHD and Tourette’s earlier in life. And there’s a young girl I’ve known since she was 4 through previous youth work, she’s now 16 and volunteering with us at StrHive.”
James also offers work experience placements and hopes to take on his first young apprentice this September.
What People Are Saying About StrHive
“Lucy has additional needs and needed a safe space to be herself and make friends. Strhives has a warm and friendly atmosphere and lovely supportive staff. Children can be children, free from worries and be themselves.” Naomi
“Thank you for all the wonderful experiences you've provided for my daughter over the last year. She really enjoyed getting creative with friends at the art and gardening sessions, taking part in forest and beach sessions and most recently the star gazing session…what I love most about the sessions is the inclusivity and as much as the activities, learning to get along with everyone no matter their age or personal challenges.” Sarah
“As well as supporting the young people, it’s about building stronger, healthier family relationships, feeling more confident in handling life’s ups and downs, and being part of a supportive network of families who really get it,” adds James.
Want to know more?
Contact James at strjivejh@gmail.com, call 07376 784424 or visit the website.
About James Hopper
James Hopper has spent over 20 years mentoring young people and adults, and supporting at-risk families and in-crisis families across Teesside. He’s worked with local organisations including The MAIN Project, Cash for Kids, and The Link Charitable Trust bringing all that experience to the work he now leads at StrHive.
