Plans for the new Our Space Macclesfield will provide a much-needed youth centre in the town. For many years, there have been continued efforts by YouthFed and others to secure a facility like this for young people near the town centre. It’s great to see these plans now coming to fruition.
I strongly support this important project. At the recent launch event, attendees were able to find out more about exciting plans to create a safe space for young people, whilst also providing access to high-quality education, sports, arts and leisure facilities.
Our Space will provide the support young people need through trusted support networks and helping them to talk about their challenges, if they’re not able to do this in other settings.
East Cheshire’s Mental Health Strategy, estimates 12,500 children and young people have a mental health disorder, with a higher prevalence in Macclesfield and Crewe. Good youth work can help assess needs early. It can also inspire through taster sessions in many activities, uncovering hidden interests in sport, arts and crafts, current affairs and more.
The centre will establish an excellent space for youth-oriented programmes during the working day and a venue to deliver mental health services. During the evening, it will be a base for young people to meet, socialise and get support that they might need. These plans have been co-designed with local young people.
The completed centre will provide a base for YouthFed, a Cheshire charity providing youth services across the county, working in partnership with other local charities. It’s leading this project along with a team of local volunteers, including Professor Simon Hayward, Chair of the Fundraising Group.
Anyone who would like to learn more about Our Space Macclesfield or provide support can contact: hello@youthfed.org. It will be a welcome addition to our community.