EXCITING times are ahead for Westbury Youth Club which is relaunching in new premises after being shut down due to Covid19.
Following the closure of the group’s former home, Leigh Park Community Centre, in 2018, it combined with Warminster Youth Club where it ran for six months before stopping.
However, after talks with Westbury Community Project Trust which has transformed the former youth centre building on Eden Vale Road, the club for 11 to 19-year-olds is looking forward to relaunching there on Wednesday 2nd September.
Club leader, Beth Mullins, said, “Around Christmas time my name was put forward and I was asked to contact Richard Hatt (chair of trustees) regarding bringing the youth club back to Westbury and running from the old youth centre.
“I spoke with Richard and was one of the first to secure a booking. Covid19 has put back the opening date of the building, however after recently meeting with Richard and being shown around the venue, we have a start date.
“It’s a very exciting time for Westbury Youth Club, even in the midst of Covid19. We can’t wait to come back to Westbury and see old and new faces.”
The group has been awarded a grant to buy new equipment which will be available in time for the first session. It will also have the use of the downstairs hall with indoor basketball hoop, outside courtyard and school field.
“The outdoor space is something that was longed for and we are really pleased to finally have it. The members will benefit from it so much,” said Beth. “The hall itself is a lot bigger and there are fewer restrictions. There will be refreshments available to buy during the session from the onsite café.”
Under Covid restrictions the youth club is allowed up to 30 members, with the hall being split in two sections for two groups of 15. It will also be working alongside Barnardo’s children’s charity to offer additional support, and Youth Action Wiltshire to provide young leadership courses and day trips.
Beth said, “We are confident this all can happen even with the Covid19 guidelines and restrictions in place. We have carried out a risk assessment which allows us to run safely. We will be providing face masks, hand sanitiser and gloves for members to use.”
Sessions will cost £1 and run on Wednesdays from 6–7.30pm.
Currently led by three volunteers, the group is now seeking more help. Applicants will need to have an enhanced DBS certificate and to complete an online safeguarding course (both to be provided by the club) either in their own time or during sessions and will be offered free courses including first aid. For more information contact Beth via wwyouthclub@hotmail.com or Facebook @westburyyouth
