A REDDITCH youth centre is set to open this week, providing a much-needed safe space for youngsters.
The Den is ‘Your Ideas’ new state-of-the art youth space, funded by the UK Government’s Youth Investment Fund.
Based in Woodrow, Redditch, Your Ideas want to ensure every young person has access to activities and support that is right for them, creating environments that are appropriate, so they feel comfortable, valued, and nurtured.
After a year in development, The Den in Dilwyn Close, opened today and is a space built with young people in mind.
Having a bigger space means Your Ideas, the group which already runs a youth space in Matchborough, can reach even more young people.
Jordan Cooke, managing director at Your Ideas Youth and Community Project, said: “The Youth Investment Fund has been transformational and it’s made young people’s dreams come true.
“We now have a fantastic, cool, fun and safe space young people can identify with and enjoy for so many years to come.
“The Den has been co-created with young people and the local community.
“We’re so excited about all the amazing adventures ahead and the life-changing opportunities The Den offers.
“Thanks are due to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport for funding The Den, Your Ideas Director Michael Fitzgerald for his tireless support through the process, our Project Managers and whole staff team who have helped make this a reality and architects at John Harris Associates and the local construction firm Leon Building Services.
“We also want to say a huge thank you to the local community for bearing with us during the construction phase.
“Your support has been fantastic – most importantly, I want to thank all the young people who played such a significant role in shaping The Den and all it has to offer.
“We really do have a dream space that both young people and the whole community can enjoy.”
