AdminHistory | The Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) was an youth agency which emerged in response to 'the need to physically defend the community against racists attacks of the National Front' (Source: Annual Report 1984-85, reference LC984). Its roots began in 1973 with the United Welfare Organisation, an educational and cultural organisation. Founded by young people supported by community leader Jaffar Khan, formed at his home in Castle House, Castle Street.
The PYO was formally established in 1979. The name Progressive Youth Organisation was later chosen: 'We chose the name because we are changing the system from one system to another in progressive manner' (quotation from Mr. Mohammed Abdus Salam). The first base was at the Montefiore Community Education Centre, Deal Street and Hanbury Street where staff activities included campaigning against racism and against police harassment.
The main objective was 'to provide facilities and to educate young people, to help them develop awareness of themselves and of the wider issues which effect their lives, such as racism, health, education, housing and employment' (Source: Annual Report 1984-85, reference LC984). Their work with young in the local Whitechapel area meant a natural focus on the local Bengali community. This included educational activities, trips and exchanges with other countries, opening up themes with young people around responsibility, new ideas and new aspirations. The advisory service focused on local youth and the local people. The organisation ran youth clubs, employed youth workers and organised teams and outreach work around issues including drugs.
Funding originally came from Inner London Education Authority (ILEA) Youth Service budget and from Greater London Council. Later the PYO was funded by the local authority and charitable organisations.
The organisation later moved to The Davenant Centre, 179-181 Whitechapel Road after 1985. The original PYO was disbanded after it was handed over to other subsequent youth groups.
Sources include: Mr. Mohammed Abdus Salam interview, 2006 Swadhinata Trust available on https://www.swadhinata.org.uk (accessed June 2022). |
CustodialHistory | These documents were originally from the agency. |