Hartlepool youth club given new lease of life thanks to apprentices

The apprentices who helped give Changing Futures a makeover are presented with a certificate.

Abbey Street Project, which is based at the Headland, appealed to the Surge and Rapid Response Team for help in transforming the youth club..

The team of 15 spent weeks planning and fundraising for the project, taking on a variety of challenges to pull in the cash, including bungee jumping from the Transporter Bridge, in Middlesbrough

The team also raised funds to buy new furniture and toys for children who use the youth club, which is based in the town’s Abbey Street.

The new-look club was officially unveiled on Wednesday, April 27, and crowds of children and their families went along to see the finished product.

The Abbey Street Project is part of local charity Changing Futures NE.

Kelly Smart, the children, young people and family centre coordinator at Changing Futures NE, said: “We are so grateful for what they have done for us. The youth club has been transformed beyond recognition.

“It is bright, clean and welcoming. The children and young people love the space and as a member of staff it is a pleasure to work in. We cannot thank them enough.”

In total, the team raised more than £1,300, as well as approaching local blind company Lillian’s Blinds who donated £200 worth of blinds to complete the centre’s makeover.

The youth club is open to all children aged between five and 19. Anyone interested in joining should go to www.changingfuturesne.co.uk or call 01429 891 444.