Salford Youth Zone has officially opened this weekend bringing life-changing opportunities to the city’s young people.
The official opening was hosted today (Saturday 5 July) bringing together donors, partners, young people, volunteers, community leaders and families.
Youth work charity Empower Youth Zones has developed the Salford Youth Zone in Belvedere Road, Pendleton, to build on the success of the HideOut Youth Zone in Gorton.
The grand opening showcased the transformative impact the SYZ is set to have, with more than 2,500 members already registered.
Membership for young people is free, with a 50p charge per session.
The opportunities for young people include an outdoor football pitch, fully-equipped gym, climbing wall, dance studio, music and recording studio, training kitchen and art workshop.
Alongside a variety of different activities and programmes seven days a week, SYZ will give young people access to free meals, employability skills workshops and trusted adults to talk to.
Adam Farricker, CEO of Empower, said: “The opening of Salford Youth Zone is an incredibly significant moment for our team and the city of Salford. After months of planning and collaboration, it’s incredibly rewarding to see our vision become reality.
“In a city where too many young people lack access to a safe, supportive environment, this facility will be a hub for these young people to grow and break down barriers.”
Adam continued: “Having been to youth services myself, I know first-hand how life changing they can be – I’m proud to be extending this opportunity to thousands more young people.
“Every young person deserves the chance to thrive, and Salford Youth Zone will help make that possible.”
The SYZ has been made possible by the support and unwavering commitment from the Fred Done and family, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and Salford City Council.
Salford Mayor Paul Dennett said: “An investment in young people is an investment in a community’s future, and Salford Youth Zone is a fantastic addition to both the city of Salford and Greater Manchester as a whole.
“We’re extremely proud to support the team as they create a future where every young person can grow and succeed.”
The future of the facility is underpinned by a combination of funders including local authorities, individuals, the business community and grants.
More than 100 full, part-time and voluntary opportunities have been created
Salford Councillor Teresa Pepper said: “The Youth Zone will offer vital support – somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to.
“It also provides new jobs in Salford and volunteering opportunities that will enhance the futures of our adult residents.”
One Comment