An Older Perspective shares the voices of people who have lived, worked and built lives in Barking & Dagenham. Through personal memories and reflections, it captures how the borough has changed and what has stayed the same. These stories go beyond history, they speak of identity, resilience and belonging. This project preserves local voices and honours the lived experiences that continue to shape the community today.
Young people across Barking & Dagenham shared honest, upfront views about what it’s really like growing up in the borough. Their insights paint a powerful picture of pride, pressure, ambition, and the need for change.
Young people spoke openly about the strong sense of belonging in B&D.
You told us the borough is diverse, friendly, and filled with familiar faces. Schools, youth clubs, and local hang-outs feel like home, places where friendships are built and support feels close.
Despite this strong sense of community, safety came up again and again.
Many of you said you don’t feel safe at night. Crime, especially knife crime, shapes the routes you take and the places you avoid. Parks, stations, and some high streets feel risky, and you want better lighting, more visible policing, and spaces where you can simply relax without fear.
A clear message came through: you care about your future.
Most young people want to do well in school, get into sixth form or university, or secure apprenticeships. You want more access to work experience, study spaces, and real career support that feels relevant and reachable.
B&D has plenty of energy, but not enough safe spaces to channel it.
You asked for more youth clubs, improved parks, creative spaces, sports options, and places where you can spend time with friends without spending money or being moved on.
Many young people said they want less fast food, fewer vape shops, and more green, open spaces. You also highlighted the need for mental health support and better services for those who are struggling.
The message is clear: Barking & Dagenham is full of talented, motivated young people who care deeply about their community. You’re proud of where you’re from, but you also want, and deserve, a safer, healthier, more supportive place to grow up. And you’re ready to be part of the change.
The powerful visual storytelling behind the Loud & Local project was brought to life by Paul, from Youth Unity, who is a dedicated Youth Professional, Videographer, and Public Speaker who has spent over twenty-five years inspiring and empowering young people. Paul’s films, widely used across schools and youth organisations, tackle real issues, serious youth violence, grooming, mental health, and more, helping young people navigate the challenges they face with honesty and hope.
We also extend our thanks to Tamara, a Youth Unity, Youth Mentor, whose support, guidance, and connection with young people played a vital role throughout the project.
Together, Paul and Tamara helped ensure that every young person’s voice in Loud & Local was captured authentically, respectfully, and with impact.
