Youth centre reopens after £1.9m refurb

A youth project has officially reopened following a £1.9m refurbishment.

The Warren Youth Project in Hull provides support for young people including mental health counselling, creative arts programmes, and advice on housing and employment.

The refurbishment of its base on Queens Dock Avenue was funded by the Youth Investment Fund and includes a fully equipped music recording studio, mental health and well-being zones, a youth theatre and dance space, kitchen facilities, and a rooftop terrace.

Ryan Miller, 25, who uses the service, said: "Having a space like The Warren has legitimately saved my life on more than one occasion. It's a place where you can be unapologetically yourself."

The Warren has been operating in Hull since 1983. In the past year alone, it supported more than 1,400 young people and delivered over 18,000 sessions.

Much of its work is to support young people who struggle to thrive in traditional education settings or feel disconnected from mainstream society.

The new features were proposed by the young people themselves to inspire creativity and help them pursue their passions.

The Warren also provides free meals to anyone in need.

Chief Executive JJ Tatten told BBC Radio Humberside: "They tell us what they need – and we provide it. That means what we do is more likely to be successful and have a real impact, because it's what young people actually want.

"This is a space where young people can create for themselves."

Cricket, 18, who uses the centre, said: "I've only been here a couple of months and it has already made a massive impact on my life."

A full programme of creative events at the centre is planned for the summer.

Mr Tatten said: "The Warren brings people together. It brings people from different backgrounds and cultures into a non-judgemental space. There should be a charity like this in every city in the country."

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