Are you passionate about creating opportunities for young people in your community? The Safe Spaces for Young People network, a collection of youth clubs across Birmingham, is offering exciting funding opportunities to help churches in disadvantaged areas create welcoming spaces for youth.
One shining example is St Andrews Chelmsley Wood, a church that launched a vibrant Youth Café thanks to a £5,000 Innovation Fund Grant. The Youth Café opens its doors every Monday, welcoming around 45 young people from six different schools in the area. The initiative offers not only a warm meal but a range of activities like gaming, table tennis, board games, and sports sessions led by professional coaches. For neurodiverse attendees, the café even includes a sensory area, ensuring that everyone has a place where they feel supported.
The Youth Café grew from St Andrews’ deep desire to engage with their local community. Starting with events sponsored by local businesses, the café has blossomed into a safe and supportive space. Even more exciting, the initiative gave rise to a Youth Alpha Group, encouraging young people to explore faith and discipleship in a gentle and relational way. Their vicar shares: “Be prepared to listen, and don’t be frightened; just start by opening up the doors and see what happens, see who comes along.”
A key message from St Andrews is that you don’t need to be a large church to make a big impact. With a little vision and commitment to serving the local community, it’s possible to make a meaningful difference. The dedication of volunteers is a big part of the café’s success, with even a volunteer in her 70s sharing: “I want to help and be part of it because I want to know what young people are experiencing, and I want to know how best to serve them.”
If you’re a parish in a disadvantaged area of Birmingham and are interested in setting up your own project, you could benefit from the Safe Spaces Innovation Grant. Get in touch to find out how to create a safe and welcoming space for young people in your neighbourhood.
For more information, contact Adam or Sarah at info@safespaces.org.uk, or visit Safe Spaces for Young People
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