New Mansfield Youth Hub helps build skills and belonging

A brand new youth facility has officially opened its doors at 159 Yorke Street, completing the premises’ transformation from former gym to a welcoming community hub for disadvantaged young people aged 16–26. Run by the Inspire and Achieve Foundation, The Hub, connects unemployed young people with activities, opportunities and support all designed to empower them to achieve their best.

“This venue has been a decade in the making for us as a youth charity and we’re so grateful to our community for welcoming this facility with open arms” said Pippa Carter, Director. “With this fantastic space, we’re already reaching new service users and supporting vulnerable young people to develop essential skills for their futures”. The community hub which boasts a social gaming area, teaching spaces, sensory rooms, life skills kitchen and employability lounge is currently open between 12pm-4pm Monday to Friday with plans to extend these hours from 10am-4pm in the new year. Free youth activities are also available daily with a complete timetable of events covering everything from baking to e-sports and crafting to power kiting.

“There’s truly something for everybody here at the Hub and our support is so much more than just getting people into work. This is about young people who’ve encountered setbacks in their life finding enthusiasm for their community and future. We want them to believe they can do anything they set their mind to and our open door means they will be supported throughout that journey with mentoring, employability programmes and community links”.

Speaking to young people at the launch event confirmed the value of community infrastructure with many sharing the importance of this space in their transition to adulthood. “The Hub gives me a place to feel comfortable, socialise and ask for help when I need it” said one young person who spoke openly about the new friendships they had made on site. Another added “this place is safety and security to me. It’s a haven to fall back on and a place I can get food. Inspire and Achieve has literally saved my life”

If you know of a young person in need of support, The Inspire and Achieve Foundation is always here to listen and assist. Referrals can be made at any time via our website or you can pop by the Hub on Yorke Street to chat to our team and explore support options to suit your circumstances.