NEW YOUTH CENTRE TO LAUNCH IN WALKDEN AS INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY CELEBRATIONS PLANNED

Young people’s positive contribution to Salford will be recognised and celebrated as part of International Youth Day next week (from Monday August 9).

And, one of the highlights of the week is the launch of a new youth centre, The Den, in Walkden which will be officially opened by the Ceremonial Mayor of Salford Councillor John Mullen on Thursday August 12. 

Salford has joined in the world-wide celebrations held on and around August 12 every year for the last 10 years and took events online last summer to make sure young people didn’t completely miss out.

This year’s theme is “Dream big, achieve big” and plans are being drawn up for films, murals, music, art projects, celebration meals and picnics, confidence boosting workshops and fun such as trampolining and making dream catchers. Former members of the Youth Council will also be taking part in a “where are they now?” session to show their achievements since being members. 

Councillor Jim Cammell, lead member for children’s and young people’s services, said: 

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“Normally our young people put on community events such as afternoon tea and invite adults in, so they can see all the great work that goes on in local youth groups.

“This year, as Covid is still around, they are staying safe by just meeting in their groups but I’m sure they will celebrate the day to the full as they should. Young people are carers, achievers, people who give back to their community all year round and we are incredible grateful for the huge contribution they make to Salford.

“We are committed to investing in and supporting young people with The Den, which has been created from the former Quality Save supermarket unit in the Ellesmere Centre, Walkden, a new BMX track at Peel Park, Little Hulton and helping 16 to 24 year olds find the jobs, skills and training they need to launch their careers. We’ve not forgotten their younger brothers and sisters too as we are upgrading children’s play facilities in every park across the city.”

 

Councillor Mullen added:

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“Opening The Den will be one of my first Mayoral visits since Covid restrictions were eased and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s on offer now and hearing what ambitions young people have for their new space.”