Swindon's youth centre marks a successful first year with growing attendance
The Base celebrates its anniversary with increased interest and positive feedback from attendees
The Base in Swindon is celebrating its first anniversary, marking a successful year since it first opened its doors in March 2025.
Located on Lyndhurst Crescent in Park North, this youth centre was established through a ÂŁ3.8 million refurbishment, led by Swindon Borough Council and its Children and Families Services.
In partnership with local organisations, the centre was developed with input from the youth it serves.
Since its opening, The Base has been receiving an average of more than 300 children each month, with high engagement reported for Thursday night youth clubs, which see around 50 attendees weekly.
Marking the anniversary, Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, and Councillor Paul Dixon, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, visited the youth centre to connect with children who are benefiting from the various activities offered.
Supported by organisations including WAY, STEP, and Young Swindon and Wiltshire, The Base provides wide-ranging activities, mentoring, and specialist youth services in one central location.
Children aged 11 to 18, or up to 25 for those with additional needs, use a variety of facilities, including music studios and practical learning spaces like a hair and beauty salon, and a kitchen for mentoring sessions and learning independent living skills.
During a visit, one child expressed how attending The Base helped overcome personal challenges, saying, “I’m experiencing something I haven’t had before at The Base. I barricade myself in my room at home, but coming here is the only time I go somewhere without my social anxiety and feelings of judgement.”
Councillor Paul Dixon emphasised the centre's positive impact, stating, “Welcoming more than 300 children each month shows how important it is to provide safe, supportive spaces where children can build friendships, develop new skills and access the support they need.”
Similarly, Councillor Jim Robbins highlighted the centre's importance as a hub for support and opportunity, “It’s fantastic to see The Base thriving one year after opening and making such a positive difference for children across Swindon.”
STEP Swindon's Director, Paul Dobson, praised the partnership among organizations and the centre's role as a vital community resource, stating, "The Base provides an inclusive and accessible environment where young people can thrive."
Young Swindon and Wiltshire CEO Andy Malcolm commented, “It’s been an absolute delight to work alongside partners to bring this idea to life!”
The Base's anniversary marks not only a year of operation but also a year of growing success and impact in young people's lives across Swindon.