The £200,000 refurbishment of Cwm Youth Centre was celebrated at a special launch event last night.
Thanks to Community Focused Schools funding from the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning programme, the centre has undergone a transformation which includes new windows, floor, roof, toilets, front door, electrics, fire alarms, security alarms, kitchen and broadband.
The funding has also enabled Blaenau Gwent Youth Service to purchase new resources and digital equipment, including a radio station setup and podcasting tools. These additions have supported the development of popular and impactful digital offers, enhancing how young people engage with creative media and communication. They’ve also been able to buy pool tables, a ping pong table, a dartboard, and televisions.
Blaenau Gwent Council officers joined guests and politicians at the launch, taking the opportunity to see the revamped facilities for themselves and also engage with young people taking part in a series of activities, including a radio workshop, cooking and DJing.
As well as being the venue for a popular youth club held twice a week, the centre is now also used by Blaenau Gwent Youth Service to deliver alternative education projects, including *EOTAS provision for young people at risk of becoming *NEET or disengaging from formal learning. In addition, the centre hosts targeted initiatives supporting youth homelessness and wellbeing, providing a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable young people.
Councillor Sue Edmunds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families at Blaenau Gwent Council says:
“It was wonderful to see the young people enjoying and appreciating the refurbished centre. Our young people deserve the best and we’re delighted to have secured Welsh Government funding to invest in this important local facility. Not only is this a hub for young people to enjoy and socialise with one other, it’s also a place where our vulnerable young people can access education, support and advice.”
Councillor George Humphreys, ward member for Cwm and a former youth worker himself, helped to launch the new facility. He says:
“I attended this youth club myself and it brings back many memories of fun and laughter, but also informal education. I was also privileged to work alongside Council staff delivering youth services in the county borough, and whilst times may have changed the goals and outcomes remain the same.
“Empowering young people today builds stronger communities tomorrow. Investing in young people is investing in the future, that is why youth clubs and youth staff are so special. A good mentor is someone who sees more talent and ability within you than you see yourself, so thank you to everyone involved with giving our community not just a 21st century facility but everything that comes with it.”
- NEET (People Not in Education, Employment or Training)
- EOTAS (Education Other Than At School)