The Garage

POLICE & CRIME COMMISSIONER UNVEILS NEW YOUTH SPACE IN MORPETH TOWN CENTRE

On Monday 31st October, Morpeth Charity Barnabas Safe & Sound welcomed Kim McGuinness to their town centre base, to mark the official launch of their newly refurbished “Garage”.

The charity shared this special day with like-minded professionals, friends, supporters, and young people involved with their work. The Garage – a fantastic safe space, is somewhere young people can be themselves, hang out with friends, and take the lead on projects important to them.

Hayley Brown, Manager of Barnabas Safe & Sound said

“Barnabas purchased its Wellwood House base in 2009 – it has always been our vision to realise the building’s potential by improving facilities for young people in Morpeth. The opening of the Garage is a big step forward in achieving this goal and we are so grateful to all those who helped us celebrate today’s official launch.”

Barnabas hope to be able to extend its Garage opening hours in the coming months, subject to funding and community support. In addition to existing youth groups, it is hoped that the Garage will play host to a range of development opportunities for more young people, including those residing within the charity’s Housing project – by offering Barista training to young people looking for work, boosting their skillset and giving them the confidence to secure employment.

Kim McGuinness, Police & Crime Commissioner said “This is an incredible space that does vital work in creating opportunities for young people. It’s vital because over the last few years, and especially in the wake of Covid-19, young people have struggled more than ever. At a time when youth work services are declining, young people have missed their rights of passage, making it harder for them to develop relationships and build communication skills. Being able to come here gives young people the chance to be the best version of themselves. I am sure there will be a succession of young people who will be grateful for their time spent with Barnabas”.

To learn more about Barnabas Safe & Sound visit www.barnabas-northumberland.org.uk or contact them on 01670 517721.