the mobex network

Since 1986 there has been an expanding network of autonomous projects with a common commitment to a distinctive way of working with young people.

The Mobex Network trustees have an overall advisory and developmental role within the network, providing links for the exchange of ideas and good practice, maintaining contacts with national and regional youth agencies and helping to promote new Mobex Projects.

Locally, each Mobex Project establishes links within the community. Project leaders become involved in networks to identify potential user groups, to work collaboratively on projects and to support other youth agencies in the work they are doing with young people. Mobex has often been described as the "hub of the wheel" or the "cement between the bricks".

Local partners include:
Youth & Community Services, Probation Service, Youth Offending Teams, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, Princes Youth Trust Volunteers, Groundwork Trust, Impact Housing, Derwent & Solway Housing, Save the Children, Hawgill Family Advice Centre and various schools and local authorities.

Major Funders Include:
The Queen's Silver Jubilee Trust, The Baring Foundation, The Rank Foundation, The Lankelly Foundation, Smiths Charity, The Francis C Scott Charitable Trust, The Scottish Education Department, The Department of FE & Skills, The National Youth Agency, The Learning & Skills Council, BBC Children in Need (NE), The Heritage Lottery Fund, Northern Rock and The Community Fund.

Mobex History:
The Mobex concept originated through the New Opportunities initiative of the Young Explorers Trust. With the encouragement and generous funding of the Queen's Silver Jubilee Trust, a three year pilot project was established (1986-89). Subsequently Mobex became an independent enterprise.

From the earliest days Mobex Projects have retained a desire to explore new, imaginative and innovative working approaches. The introduction and dovetailing of creative arts and the outdoors has led to many new and exciting learning experiences for young people and youth leaders alike. More recent work has involved green woodworking, natural sculpting, the use of nomadic tents. Expeditions remain a significant part of the natural progression for young people, and groups associated with Mobex have organised journeys to Norway, the Alps, Pyrenees, Poland, Czech Republic and Morocco.

Mobex has been fortunate in securing generous financial support from many charitable sources since starting in 1986. This support along side the unique mobile approach of Mobex has enabled the organisation to pioneer work with groups beyond the reach of many other agencies.