Three young people from our Altogether Now Project stepped into the heart of the city’s festive celebrations last week, after being invited to support the Haymarket team during their annual Christmas Lights Switch-On. The evening brought together families, performers, shoppers and staff for one of the centre’s biggest community events of the year, and our young people played a key part in helping it all run smoothly.
The night started with a real highlight, as the Haymarket team entrusted the group with the exciting role of leading the drummers through the shopping centre to kick off the event. With crowds gathering and the rhythm echoing around the shopping centre, our young people guided the procession with confidence, helping to create an atmosphere that was fun, welcoming, and full of anticipation for the big switch-on.
Following the procession, they spent the rest of the evening shadowing members of the Haymarket’s security and customer service teams. This gave them a unique insight into what happens behind the scenes during a major public event. They observed how staff communicated with one another, responded to potential issues, and ensured that visitors felt safe and supported throughout the celebration. It was a chance for the young people to develop valuable skills in teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and staying calm under pressure.
I really enjoyed my time there considering this was my first light switch on event that I have been to in my life
Jack - Altogether Now Participant
The entertainment for the evening was fantastic, with music, performances and festive activities taking place across the centre. The Christmas lights themselves looked brilliant once they were switched on, transforming the shopping centre and bringing a real sense of festive magic to the space. Being part of this moment gave the young people a sense of pride and achievement, knowing they had contributed to making the evening run successfully.
We are extremely grateful to the Haymarket team for inviting us to be part of such a vibrant and well loved community event. Special mention to Dean Cross, Centre Manager for the Haymarket who invited us to this event and arranged it all, as well as providing our volunteer marshals with some lovely Christmas gifts! The staff on the night were extremely professional, friendly and considerate with the young people too, they definitely learned a lot from them. Experiences like this make a real difference to the young people we work with. They not only build confidence and employability skills but also help participants feel included, trusted and valued by the wider community.
A huge well done to the three young people who represented the Altogether Now Project with enthusiasm, maturity and positivity throughout the evening. And once again, a heartfelt thank you to the Haymarket for their warm welcome and continued commitment to supporting opportunities for young people across Leicester.
For more information about the Altogether Now Project or if you have other opportunities for our marshals to get involved in, please contact Ross Cox ross@leicestershirecares.co.uk