A youth club that’s launched in Pinchbeck is proving a success.
The club meets at the Pinchbeck Hub every month on the first Wednesday of the month from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.
It’s for eight to 11-year-olds from 5.30pm to 7pm and for 11 to 17-year-olds from 7pm to 8.30pm.
It’s being funded by Pinchbeck Parish Council and the Pinchbeck Community Land Trust and organised in conjunction with the Lincolnshire YMCA.
Parish councillor John Smith said that ‘around 65 people’ were using the monthly sessions.
He says that the youngsters that currently attend would like the sessions to be weekly and that those behind it are looking at funding streams to make it more frequent.
Leo Copsey, of Lincolnshire YMCA, said: “They’ve been very well attended so far.
“Our main goal is to get more young people involved.
“The sessions are for everybody.
“If you’re really sporty, or if you’re artsy and crafty or just want somewhere to hang out, there should be something for you.
“We’re a unique team able to draw on the work of local volunteers working with the likes of Pinchbeck Parish
Council and the Pinchbeck Community Land Trust who know all the right people and places to generate interest.”
Reaching out to young people includes those in areas where antisocial behaviour has been reported.
“It’s been great have meaningful engagement with young people on the streets that have come in,” Leo continued. “Already, even in the first eight months, we’ve seen people coming in, breaking down barriers and starting speaking to more people.
“Anybody is welcome to come in look at what we do and the opportunities on offers. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere.”
Coun Smith said: “The youth club has been running for almost a year and has been a huge success.
“The young people of Pinchbeck would like us to increase the frequency of their youth club, and we want to find a way to enable this to happen. YMCA have done a tremendous job, and it is wonderful to see upwards of 65 children coming along to The Hub and library and enjoying themselves.
“Pinchbeck Community Land Trust and Pinchbeck Parish Council contributed significant funding to get the youth club up and running on a monthly basis.
“Each session costs about £150 to deliver, we are now looking for local individuals, organisations or businesses to help us by sponsoring a youth club session. If you can help or need any further information, please get in touch with me on 07507 713817 or email cllr.johnsmith@pinchbeck-pc.gov.uk.”
The youth club is also looking for volunteers.
“We’re always open to volunteers,” said Leo. “Volunteering is really rewarding and there are so many benefits for communities, particularly in rural area.”
To volunteer, or find out more information about the youth club, contact Lincolnshire YMCA on 01522 or youthservice@lincsymca.co.uk
