by John Prince
A new youth organisation in Hornsea has set its sights on developing its dedicated activity centre for young people, building on a successful first few months of weekly sessions in the town.
Hornsea Youth is a community interest company (CIC) run by Gav Nesbitt and Phil Wilson. It was set up following their experiences in youth work, and from talking with local youngsters about what they wanted from their own facility.
The group launched its first session at the Hollis Recreation Ground in August and has since been developing a programme of activities for young people aged 11 to 18.
The organisers have ambitions beyond the weekly sessions, with plans to develop a centre offering everything from gaming and music to workshops, homework support and practical life skills.
Gav and Phil said: “Hornsea Youth CIC was established following our owns experiences and conversations with young people in the local community.
“One thing that consistently came through was the desire for a space of their own, somewhere they could meet friends, explore their interests, try new activities and access support in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
“Our aim isn’t simply to provide another youth club, but to develop a youth activity centre offering a wider range of opportunities for young people in Hornsea.”
For now, the focus is on establishing the group, building relationships and giving youngsters a say in what activities they would like to see.
Weekly Monday evening sessions have already featured console gaming, karaoke, table tennis, board games, dancing and music, with DJ decks introduced in September to give youngsters the chance to try mixing music.
The group has also teamed up with mixed martial arts (MMA) club NeoShoot East Coast to provide training sessions, with participants learning new techniques and developing their confidence and abilities.
Organisers say they have been encouraged by the progress made by youngsters taking part, particularly those trying something completely new.
The group has also received support from local businesses, including Hornsea’s Rage Quit, which donated an Xbox 360, Kinect and Just Dance game.
But alongside the activities, staff are seeing the benefits of giving young people somewhere they feel comfortable and included.
The organisers recently described how youngsters who initially arrived feeling uncertain had gradually settled in, joined activities and made new friends.
In one case, a young person who was initially nervous about attending stayed until the end of the session and said they wanted to return.
“Sometimes, something as simple as walking through the door can be a huge achievement.
“Seeing a young person arrive unsure of what to expect, settle in, stay until the end and then tell us they’d like to come back makes everything we’re building here feel worthwhile.”
Staff have also spent time supporting young people through changes in their lives, including the move from primary to secondary school.
Gav and Phil said they wanted to develop an inclusive environment where youngsters of different ages and abilities could make friends, discover interests and access opportunities they might otherwise miss out on.
They said: “Just as importantly, we want young people to have a voice in shaping what we offer, ensuring that our sessions and activities reflect their interests and needs.
“As we get established, our focus is on building relationships with local young people, listening to their ideas and gradually developing a varied programme of activities that they want to be part of.”
Hornsea Youth has also been building its own identity, recently introducing new branding and a flag as the youngsters and staff make the space their own.
As a non-profit CIC, the organisation relies on grants, fundraising and donations to cover its costs and develop new opportunities.
It has now launched a £5,000 JustGiving appeal to help fund activities, equipment and future sessions, and is hoping residents and businesses will support its work.
The group said every contribution would help, while those unable to donate could still make a difference by spreading the word and encouraging youngsters to get involved.
Looking ahead, Hornsea Youth say they want to work with the community and local partners, and hope to continue developing the group in a way that makes a genuine, lasting difference to young people.
Hornsea Youth meets at the Hollis Recreation Ground every Monday from 6pm to 8pm, with sessions costing £2.50.
Places are limited and must be booked in advance, with a registration and consent form required before attending for the first time.
For more information and to book a session, visit bookwhen.com/hornseayouth.
Details of the fundraising appeal can be found through the Hornsea Youth Facebook page.
