A TRIO of new youth clubs have been launched in Smith’s Wood.
Jointly funded by Solihull Council and the Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP), the youth clubs and youth bus aim to provide support and guidance to improve the lives of young people in the area aged eight to 17.
Each week, the project will host a packed schedule of activities like games, sports and creative workshops that build confidence and life skills.
With youth workers on hand during term time, young people can get advice on everything from mental health and job skills to everyday wellbeing.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster said: “Initiatives like these are essential, to tackle the root causes of crime and anti-social behaviour.
“By providing young people in Solihull with positive opportunities, safe spaces, and trusted mentors, we are empowering them to make better choices for their future.
“This project is a testament to the power of partnership working, and I am pleased to support an initiative, that will strengthen community bonds and create lasting change.”
The youth clubs are run by three organisations with experience in providing youth support across Solihull, led by Urban Heard and supported by Winnr Sport and Fitcap.
Urban Heard’s club provides a safe space for 11 to 16-year-olds, where they can build social skills and try new activities in the company of trusted youth workers, at Auckland Hall Tuesdays 4pm to 5:30pm.
Winnr Sport’s club, for eight to 12-year-olds, focuses on supporting the younger generation to learn and grow at Smith’s Wood Primary Academy 5:30pm to 7pm on Wednesdays.
Youth organisation Fitcap hosts older teenagers, aged 16 and 17, at Smith’s Wood Sports & Social Club, 8-10pm on Wednesdays, where they can play snooker and take part in fun activities on the Solihull Youth Bus.
Provided by Solihull Council and designed in collaboration with young people from Solihull, the bus aims to engage young people across the borough and reach those who may not already benefit.
The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Annette Mackenzie, said: “It was fantastic to be at the launch to see these youth clubs opening their doors in the north of the borough. Spaces like these give young people somewhere safe, supportive and fun to spend time outside of school.
“From sports and creative activities to skills workshops and social events. We hope that the clubs are going to be transformational for young people in the area.
“We’re really looking forward to seeing how the clubs grow and how they will help inspire and empower our next generation.”
Councillor Wazma Qais, Cabinet Member for Communities at Solihull Council, said: “Youth clubs aren’t just about fun – though that’s certainly important – they’re about creating the right environment where young people can express themselves, make friends and feel part of their local community.
“Whether it’s learning something new, getting help with a challenge, or spending time with trusted youth workers who care, clubs like this can make a huge difference.”
Olivia, attendee of the youth club and design inspiration for the youth bus, said: “It’s amazing that me and my friend Taylor’s designs have inspired the look of the youth bus – it’s brilliant to see it in real life! I’m so happy and proud to be part of something that will help other young people.”
