A historic Grade II listed building in central Ryde, Isle of Wight has undergone a remarkable transformation into a modern and welcoming youth service center for young Islanders. Thanks to a generous grant of £578,000 from the Youth Investment Fund, Network Ryde Youth Service was able to turn the former St Thomas’s Church into a vibrant hub for the community.
The official opening ceremony took place on July 9, with guests including young beneficiaries, partner organizations, local councillors, and supporters of Network Ryde coming together to celebrate this exciting new chapter. Ryde mayor Richard May, along with Bex Swan, Network Ryde’s youth work manager, had the honor of cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion.
The refurbished center is expected to benefit around 350 young people aged between 11 and 18. It features spacious activity zones, gaming areas, a fully-equipped kitchen, confidential spaces, and even a sensory room for therapeutic purposes. The decision-making process for the center was inclusive, with young people actively participating in the purchase, design, and funding efforts.
Network Ryde has been dedicated to promoting the well-being of young people for over six years, with the support of Ryde Town Council. Mayor Richard May commended the hard work of the staff and councillors involved in making the project a reality, emphasizing the importance of providing a high-quality space and program for the community. He expressed his pride in the collaborative effort that led to the successful completion of the center.
Bex Swan echoed these sentiments, expressing delight in opening the doors of the new center to young people and expanding the services available to secondary school-aged youth. She highlighted the extensive consultation and involvement of young people throughout every stage of the project, ensuring that their voices were heard and valued in shaping the development of the center.
The transformed church now stands as a symbol of community support and empowerment, offering young people a safe and engaging environment to learn, grow, and connect with their peers. The positive impact of this initiative is expected to contribute to a brighter future for the youth of Ryde and beyond.
In addition to the core services provided at the youth center, Network Ryde plans to offer a range of educational workshops, recreational activities, and support programs to further enrich the experiences of young people in the community. By fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, the center aims to create a positive and inclusive space where all young people can thrive and reach their full potential.