A new centre dedicated to supporting young people has opened in Newport, allowing a popular youth café to expand its activities and welcome more youngsters.
Newport Minster’s Parish Centre in Town Lane has been transformed into The Hope Centre, with Revive Newport relocating its Youth Café to the larger premises this week.
The move follows growing demand for Revive’s services, with the organisation having outgrown its existing Community Hub at Castlehold Baptist Church.
Revive, which has been supporting young people in Newport for the past 15 years, provides a safe and welcoming environment where youngsters can socialise, build friendships and access support.
Backed by local churches, individual donations and grant funding, the organisation also carries out detached youth work in areas affected by anti-social behaviour, reaching young people who might not otherwise engage with its services.
The move to The Hope Centre will allow Revive to accommodate its existing membership, welcome additional young people and increase the number of sessions offered each week.
As the building’s lead occupier, Revive will also work alongside other organisations, including Aspire’s Creative Hub and a new inclusive orchestra project.
Pete Luther, Director of Revive Newport, said:
“Having a larger space means we can not only accommodate the current membership but also more young people, and also offer more sessions each week.
“Our young people need somewhere they can feel safe, accepted and listened to, and this new partnership gives us the opportunity to build on what we have been doing in Newport over the last 15 years.”
The initiative is being supported by Newport Minster and the wider parish, with the aim of creating a welcoming space where young people can thrive.
Reverend Chris Bradish, Team Rector for Newport, Carisbrooke and Gatcombe, said:
“The Minster and wider Parish have a heart to see young people in our town and Island thrive. We are excited to be growing a new partnership with Revive Newport and others.”
Through its existing and new partnerships, Revive hopes to offer further educational opportunities, mental wellbeing support and activities that help young people form friendships, make positive choices and realise their full potential.
