Caerphilly Youth Service recently welcomed Hefin David MS to Virginia Park Youth Centre, where he was given a first-hand look at the wide-ranging support and opportunities available to young people in the area.
The centre plays a pivotal role in the local community, acting as a vital hub for young people aged 11 to 25. It serves as a central meeting point, a source of information and support, and a space for social interaction.
The centre provides opportunities for developing essential life skills through a range of creative activities, including participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Highlighted at Hefin’s visit was the Wellness Community Garden and the dedicated Wellbeing Room, emphasising the service’s commitment to holistic support.
Young people also engage in creative cooking initiatives and receive vital support through LGBTQ+ groups and traditional youth club provision.
The centre is also home to the Prevention of Youth Homelessness team and provides crucial assistance to young people not in education, employment, or training, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to thrive.
Various voluntary groups and professional organisations have built successful, strong relationships with those at the centre.
Hefin David, Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly said:
“I’m delighted to have been invited to the centre where the hard work of the youth team is clear to see. They have so much passion and drive around supporting our young people; not only through the centre itself and giving them somewhere to go, but also through other work like their homelessness scheme, period poverty and sexual health support and their contribution to sustainability and climate change. The team are doing such fantastic work here and I’m really looking forward to visiting again with my daughter, who I know will love the sensory room”.
Cllr Carol Andrews, Cabinet Member for Education and Communities, commented:
“It was good to welcome Hefin David MS to Virginia Park Youth Centre to showcase the outstanding work of the Caerphilly Youth Service. Not only does the centre play an important role in the local community but many young people travel from further afield across the borough to take advantage of the services offered there.”
Cllr Jamie Pritchard, Cabinet Member for Prosperity, Regeneration and Transformation, also said:
“The Virginia Park Youth Centre is helping to support so many young people with education, training, and employment opportunities. This is a great resource, so it was a very productive meeting with Hefin David MS, who I’m sure will take back to the Senedd, the positive work being done here.”
