Local family support charity Purple Elephant is calling for more volunteers to support its new youth club.
The youth club, run in partnership with Young Somerset, opened in October for 8- to 13-year-olds at the Key Centre on Feltham Lane. Now officially named The Key Club, the venture has so far been a success for its 20 young members.
A child-led approach, with young people’s contributions at the core of decision-making, is helping to shape a welcoming and inclusive space. More volunteers are needed to join the team and support the Youth Club Workers.
Youth worker Freya said, “I love that the children are safe and free here. They’re open to new opportunities they don’t access elsewhere, which is really special.”
Volunteers who relate well to young people and have some experience working with them are encouraged to get in touch.
One young club member said, “You can do whatever you want, and there’s food! It feels like home here.”
Youth Club Coordinator Katie Marshall said, “The contribution of the young people is at the heart of the club. We give them as much autonomy as possible because it is their club. Our role as adult youth workers is to support their ideas to come alive. Even the name, The Key Club, was decided collaboratively by the young people. It stands for K-kind, E-enjoyable, Y-youth, C-club, which already tells us how they feel about their place here.”
Thanks to input from its young members, The Key Club has already held a karaoke night, a movie night and a pizza-making session, alongside weekly opportunities to enjoy board games, crafts, creative activities, a quiet chill-out room and an at-cost tuck shop.
Earlier this month, in celebration of love, friendship and kindness, the club also held a Valentine’s party featuring themed crafts, nail painting, decorated biscuits and cards for those special to the young people.
The group also created a collaborative piece (pictured), inspired by their discussion on what they love doing, what they love about friends and family, and what they love about themselves.
Future plans include a professional-led cooking session, teaming up with a graphic designer to create a new logo, and extending activities outside to Tower View Park for games and sports as the evenings get lighter in spring.
Anyone applying to volunteer must be over 18 and willing to undergo a DBS check. Volunteers are needed on Thursday evenings, but there is no requirement to commit to every week. Purple Elephant and Young Somerset will also provide training in safeguarding and other key areas of support.
Youth worker Carla said, “I really would encourage anyone who enjoys the company of young people and has some experience with them to volunteer and join us. It’s such a fulfilling role. After a long day, I come here, have fun with people I know, and it makes me feel good—I always leave feeling happy.”
If you are interested in joining the fun as a support volunteer at the club, please email Purple Elephant with your contact details at info@purpleelephant.org.uk.
Pictured: Celebration of love and kindness banner
