A new centre has opened in Grimsby to offer a safe place for young people to meet, socialise, and access free support and guidance from trusted adults.
The Haven, based on Queen Street, was originally set-up on Osborne Street in Grimsby, to address problems around youth anti-social behaviour in the area.
After enjoying some success, North East Lincolnshire Council have committed to developing this with a new, council-owned building on the edge of the town centre.
The site will offer a safe place for young people to meet up, have fun, and access services including We Are With You, Young and Safe, staff from the Journey Enrichment Fulfilment and Friendship project, Not in Education or Employment (NEET) or Training practitioners and a sexual health nurse. This multi-disciplinary team can offer support and advice across a range of areas such as substance misuse, sexual health and careers.
Speaking after the launch, Ann-Marie Matson, director of children’s services at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “I’m really pleased to see this offer being developed further in our town centre, making sure that our young people have somewhere to go when they feel lost or are struggling.
“It’s important that these services are accessible to our young people, and that they feel that they can access them in a really easy way, whenever they need them, without fear of being judged.”
Councillor Margaret Cracknell, portfolio holder for children and education at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “The new building is fantastic and has clearly been redeveloped with young people in mind.
“I’m confident that they will make use of this critical resource and take advantage of the valuable information, advice and guidance on offer here.”
The Haven will also offer a community shop, youth group sessions, and quiet rooms.
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
