Youth centre garden gets a blooming boost

Enhancements will soon be made to the garden at Space Youth Services youth centre after a collaboration with Barnstaple in Bloom dug up access to funding. 

The revamp of the outside area at Georgie’s in St George’s Road could help the town to regain gold status in the long-running RHS Britain in Bloom campaign, which considers how different parts of a community - including young people - use gardening to transform local spaces.

Frances Bell from Barnstaple in Bloom was instrumental in the initiative, suggesting the youth centre apply for funding. She then helped with the funding application to the Davie Barnstaple Trust, which has an overall objective mission to advance the education and benefit of young people in Barnstaple, including grants for recreation or leisure time occupation.

Everyone was thrilled when funding of £2,500 was awarded to Space by the Trust. It will help to fund artwork being commissioned to enhance the site, with the majority of the grant being used to add raised beds to grow fresh produce and a covered kitchen with seating.

Senior Youth Support Worker, Laimei Curtis said: “The idea is to get the young people using the centre to get involved in growing lots of different produce in the raised beds, which we can then use for any cooking we do in the outside kitchen.

“This will provide a lovely new social space for everyone to enjoy. We will be leaving the large area of grass untouched, as it’s a great area for young people to take part in outdoor games.”

Volunteers from the local community have agreed to provide expert advice as the new garden takes shape. “And in return, we’re keen for young people from the centre to get involved as volunteers in other Britain in Bloom projects in the town,” added Laimei.

Georgie’s Centre is in St George’s Road. Georgie’s Youth Centre provides a safe space for young people aged 11 to 19 from the Barnstaple area. It’s free to use, and offers creative activities including cooking, games, pool competitions, table tennis and use of a music studio. Facilities include a lounge, music rooms, meeting rooms, space for arts and craft, and a fully kitted indoor kitchen.