A NEW online youth centre has been launched by two women to support young people across Kirklees, West Yorkshire.

Youth Central, which launched on Monday (May 25), will feature live and recorded sessions, live chat and online activities for young people across the borough.

Local young people aged 12-19 will be able to visit the virtual platform, which is designed to give them instant access to a range of activities, support and opportunities at the click of a button.

The creative minds behind the initiative, Conscious Youth founders and CEOs Serena Johnson and Sophie Simpson said: “We are yet to see the real impact of COVID-19 on young people, a fall in the economy will see an increase in youth unemployment and mental health issues. Youth Central is about putting young people first and ensuring that they still feel important amongst the chaos. We hope the platform gives them hope and a sense of community during these uncertain times.”  

Sessions such as fitness, beauty, self-care, gaming and arts and craft will run Monday to Friday, hosted by youth workers from across Kirklees. Some sessions will be held live over Zoom, giving young people the opportunity to interact “face-to-face” with youth workers. Other sessions will be available pre-recorded so young people can access them at their convenience.

Youth-led

Young people have been instrumental in the development of the platform and all the activities are designed to be fun and engaging.

As is the case for many young people around the world, lockdown can be a very tough and lonely time for teenagers in Kirklees. Youth Central is providing young people with an outlet where they can not only ask for help if they need it but also to enjoy time with others safely online.

The live chat service, “Speak to a Youth Worker”, will give young people daily access to trained youth workers who will listen, signpost and offer ideas for things to do during lockdown. 

“Youth Central is a brilliant idea and having two teenage daughters myself I know that a Digital Youth Hub is a fantastic way for young people to keep active and involved with their community. I think the opportunity for local young people to be able to speak to a youth worker, someone who can give them advice and support at an uncertain time for young people, is a wonderful initiative,” Jason McCartney, the Conservative MP for Colne Valley, said.

Tracy Brabin, Labour MP for Batley and Spen, said: “The young people of Kirklees have been deeply effected by Covid. They are no longer able to see their friends, meet at school or continue with their hobbies. Many are isolated and potentially lonely. This new website is a great way for young people to not just ask for help but also to enjoy time with others safely online.

“Congratulations to the team and I look forward to welcoming them physical in north Kirklees once Covid is over.”

Youth Central will provide information on careers, training, support services, good news stories, competitions, social action and after school opportunities.

Developed by Johnson and Simpson’s award-winning Conscious Youth and backed by Kirklees Council and Kirklees Youth Alliance, the Youth Central platform is a longer term strategy for youth engagement, designed to be just as relevant beyond COVID-19.

Organisations, businesses and young people who would like to be involved in the new virtual youth centre should email [email protected] or call 07498043637.