Cheltenham Youth Café is offering young people a safe and supportive space
The Youth Café is returning to Smokey Joe's after a successful pilot
The Youth Cafe at Smokey Joe's in Cheltenham town centre is set to return, offering a safe, fun and supportive space for young people in the city centre.
Brought back by No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and supported by local organisations Springbank Community Group CiC and The Rock Cheltenham, the sessions include free access to vintage arcade video games, food and drink vouchers, and activities from providers like The Music Works and Escape Rooms Cheltenham.
Funding from Cheltenham Borough Council and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Gloucestershire has helped the Youth Cafe return, with additional funds supporting a second daytime session for partner agencies.
Councillor Jamie Jamieson, cabinet member for safety and communities, said,'' "The response to the Youth Cafe pilot showed just how important it is to have a safe, welcoming space for young people in the town centre.
It gives them a space where they can just relax, spend time with friends, enjoy activities and get some support if and when they need it.''
Nick Evans, deputy Police and Crime Commissioner added, ''“I’m really pleased that we’re able to continue funding Cheltenham’s Youth Cafe as part of our work to prevent crime and anti-social behaviour in the town centre.''
The Youth Cafe will run on Thursdays from 3.30 until 6 from 3rd September. It will also be running during the October half term.