Music, art, sports and more: Arlesey Youth Group reopens!
Arlesey Youth Group has reopened to provide a safe, creative space – and inspire the next generation to achieve their dreams.
Its opening night was held on July 14 and included sports and games, arts and crafts, a DJ workshop, and pizzas to enjoy.
It's hoped that people will spread the word and encourage 12 to 18-year-olds to come to Arlesey Youth Centre, High Street, every Tuesday and make the most of its free opportunities. They also welcome young people with additional needs aged 12 to 25.
Mary Otumahana, youth practitioner for The Children's Society, will be running the club. She said: "It's a place where young people can grow and develop their talent, take part in something enriching and socialise with other young people."
The Children's Society, which has been established for over 140 years, has been commissioned by Central Beds to deliver this service in Arlesey, as well as Leighton Buzzard, Sandy and Biggleswade.
Zoe Peacock, youth practitioner for The Children's Society, said: "We don't turn away anybody. It's a safe space for young people to come and take part in activities they have co-designed with everything being youth-led. We encourage young people to take part and develop their leaderships skills. We offer a space where young people can be heard."
The centre has previously worked with organisations including Aquarius Charity (drugs and alcohol) and i-Cash (sexual health), focusing on health and wellbeing matters, as well as Blue Influence (RSPB) to encourage environmental awareness and knowledge of nature. It has also taken part in Geocashing.
Commenting on the opportunities for young people, chair and mayor of Arlesey Town Council, Pauline Arkle, said: "It's nice to see the younger ones here. They have come through the door and seem really comfortable. I just think it's absolutely wonderful that there will be something else for them to do, something different.
"As chair and mayor, I wanted to support a new venture, and Mary is so enthusiastic."
Mary is better known to her music fans by her artist name WondRWomN, specialising in hip hop, lyricism, storytelling and rap music. She will be using these skills to support young people in youth sessions.
Each week participants will have access to sports including football, badminton and pool, as well as music, arts, crafts – and more opportunities.
Everything is free and there will be snacks and refreshments, too.
The Children's Society can also advise on low-level anxiety and friendship issues, or signpost young people to other organisations for help with more complex issues.
The Arlesey Youth Group will meet this evening (Tuesday, July 21) before breaking for the summer holidays. It will return on Tuesday, September 8. It’s open from 5.30pm until 7.30pm.
Click here for more information about The Children's Society and its neighbouring youth groups in Biggleswade, Sandy and Leighton Buzzard.