A city councillor this week welcomed the return of youth work and youth clubs in both Kenton and Blakelaw. Across the city youth centres and hubs are re-appearing as part of a partnership programme between Newcastle council and Tyneside youth organisations.
The Haven family hub based in North Kenton is running two youth clubs for the under 11s and teenagers whilst the Cowgate youth charity Project4Change is running a programme of detached youth work where qualified and experienced youth workers meet up with young people on the street and in public spaces.
Kenton councillor Stephen Lambert said:
“After a decade of decline due to UK government austerity and public expenditure it’s encouraging to see the re-appearance of positive and worthwhile activities for young people across Kenton, Kenton Bar and near Blakelaw. Youth work comes in many forms and is an important diversionary activity. It also plays a key role for those youngsters susceptible to anti-social behaviour to stay out of trouble.”
Project4Change and the Haven
Project4Change, a youth charity based on Cowgate estate, has been running a detached youth work project across Kenton and Blakelaw as part of the Extra Mile funded by the Millions Fund.
The charity’s CEO Kelly Coates said:
” Youth workers have been on the streets on Kenton Bar meeting young people and learning about their lives. The simple act of reaching out to people can be so powerful. Detached youth work is especially good at showing young people that they matter by taking time out to find them and understand their needs.
”It’s true that some young people we meet feel let down in life, left out of decision making and mistrustful of professionals. This changes over time and slowly we see the trust being rebuilt.
”We can engage and offer support that’s available in the long term. As a result of this work young people feel valued and listened to. We can help them progress in life and navigate difficult situations. That’s why detached youth wok is so amazing.”
Councillor Lambert said:
”Detached youth work and youth clubs in the Haven are welcome additions to other successful youth organisations in our district such as TKO Boxing and the West Gosforth./Montagu Scouts and Guides and Rainbows.”
