‘Very shocked’ - South Tyneside youth centre faces closure following a funding blow
Leaders at a South Tyneside youth centre are fighting for survival after a funding blow leaves the site facing closure.
A South Tyneside youth centre is fighting a last gasp survival battle after a devastating funding blow left it facing closure within days.
Bosses at Clegwell & Hartleyburn Community Hub (CIC) fear their youth facilities building will shut this month unless essential day-to-day running costs can be found – and fast.
It opened in 2022 after hub volunteers raised £210,000, with around £700,000 given since 2019 by the National Lottery Community Fund for development and ongoing support.
The Hebburn centre was the next step in an ongoing project led by the CIC and supported by Northumbria Police which was credited with drastically reducing anti-social behaviour.
Dozens of youngsters use its shared sports facilities, computers for learning, kitchen and meeting room in an initiative heralded for helping keep them off the streets.
Such was its success that Northumbria Police shared with other Forces how the scheme was run.
But leaders say they have been left shattered after an application for funding to a major national youth charity - believed to be for £45,000 – was rejected.
The money would have paid the wages of four part-time staff who must be onsite to monitor activities and other essential daily costs into next year.
‘It is not looking good for us’
The club has now launched a last-gasp bid for the £8,000 it needs for short term survival beyond Saturday, October 31,when funding ends.
Garry Jennings, its senior positive youth activities worker, said: “It is not looking good for us – we are very shocked to be in this position.
“The building only recently opened and has been a great success story, and it is devastating to think that such a heavily funded project will just shut down.
“This facility has been a cornerstone for young people, providing them with a safe haven and a platform to engage positively with one another and the wider community.
“It is not just a building, it’s a lifeline for many families in the area, offering activities that contribute significantly to reducing anti-social behaviour and building a stronger, healthier community.
“Many parents rely on this provision, not only because it offers a safe environment for their children but because it provides them with peace of mind, knowing their kids are engaged and safe.
“We have told the children about the situation we find ourselves in and they are upset and shocked.”
Appealing for help
He added: “We have applied for funding, as in previous years, but haven’t been given it, which has left many in our community worried and frustrated. We are appealing for help.
“Without immediate cash support, this vital centre will close at the end of October. Any support is very welcome.
“In a world where young people face increasing challenges, destinations like Clegwell & Hartleyburn are more vital than ever.”
Mr Jennings called for a discussion around funding with South Tyneside Council, councillors and community leaders to find a “sustainable” solution.
South Tyneside Council said it was unable to replace individual organisations’ external grant funding but can signpost them to potential funding opportunities.
Financial support can be given by contacting the club or via: https://gofund.me/94a0a1fcc.