Funding allows youth centre to get makeover
July 30, 2021
Young people are benefitting from a sparkling-new kitchen at their youth centre, thanks to funding from the National Park Authority.
The King’s Arms Youth Centre, in Petersfield, Hampshire, was given £15,000 of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to refurbish the kitchen in their new permanent base in the town.
The King’s Arms, affectionately known as ‘KA’ to the young people, is a charity set up to meet the needs of young people in Petersfield, Alton and surrounding villages. The charity runs a variety of activities, such as arts, craft, cooking, or simply letting young people have a space to “chill” and relax.
The charity also runs the East Hants Young Carers Programme, which gives respite to young people who are caring for a relative by providing the opportunity to meet with other carers, enjoy a meal together or go out for a trip.
The charity aims to help young people with their self-belief, emotional resilience and to develop positive relationships.
Jessica Riches, a Planning Officer who helps to deliver CIL funding, said: “It’s great to see this amazing facility come to fruition and we know that hundreds of young people across the region will benefit from the improvements. We hope everyone enjoys using this kitchen!”
Caroline Aeschliman, Chief Executive of the King’s Arms, said: “The transformation of our kitchen area is brilliant. From an empty shell to a homely, inviting space. It means we can have impactful mentoring conversations with young people over a cuppa in a relaxed environment and we can provide meals for young carers in need of respite.
“We can also do cooking activities with young people with additional needs giving them confidence, and we’ve used the space to make cookie creations with young people struggling at school, helping them think about some of their choices.
“We are very grateful for our CIL funding which, matched with a local trust fund, allowed us to completely renovate the kitchen area.”