In a heartening community revival, a once-shuttered youth facility in Poole is now buzzing with activity after being rescued by a specialist educational institution. The Turlin Moor Youth Club, which closed its doors in Autumn 2023, has been given a vibrant new lease on life under the stewardship of the South West Regional Assessment Centre (SWRAC), a college specialising in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
A Vital Community Hub Reborn
SWRAC intervened to reopen and manage the youth club after recognising the profound gap its closure left in the local area. Adrian Gunner, Managing Director of SWRAC, explained the decision, stating: "We stepped in because we recognised that youth club provision has historically played a huge part in helping in the development of young people, supporting them to become independent and resilient." He highlighted the national context of declining youth service budgets, which have led to widespread club closures, a trend he believes contributes to anti-social behaviour.
While SWRAC is an established specialist college, this venture marks its first foray into operating a youth club. "Our aims are to give young people somewhere fun to go, to help mitigate anti-social behaviour sometimes associated with youth service withdrawal and also to give something back to the larger Turlin Moor community," added Mr Gunner.
Endless Activities in a Safe Environment
The revitalised club offers an array of facilities designed for enjoyment and engagement. Children have access to a pool table, various gaming equipment, a spacious indoor sports court, a tuck shop, and an outdoor area. Popular weekly art and craft sessions are led by Minisha Clough, adding a creative dimension to the programme.
The club is meticulously run by SWRAC staff members Sue Swaine and Donnie Burgess, with Ms Clough providing additional support. It operates on a structured schedule, welcoming children in Years 4 to 6 on Tuesday evenings and those in Years 7 to 10 on Wednesdays.
Fostering Independence and Confidence
Sue Swaine, drawing on her own positive childhood experiences, emphasised the club's philosophy. "There's no pressure for the kids to do activities here," she said. "Sometimes they want to play games, sports, crafts and get involved, other times they just want to chill out and be somewhere different after being at school all day. We want kids to come and have fun, be with their friends and have some sense of independence."
While promoting freedom, safeguarding remains paramount, with clear guidelines in place. Donnie Burgess observed the transformative impact on attendees, noting: "You see their confidence growing. It helps them make friendships and resolve conflicts. I think it would have a huge impact on them if they weren't able to come here."
Overwhelmingly Positive Response
The community's response has been resoundingly positive. Young people are attending in significant numbers, with parents and local councillors offering strong support. Adrian Gunner noted that families appreciate knowing their children are in a safe environment, rather than at home bored or on the streets.
The club's success stories are compelling. Twelve-year-old Alfie credits the club with nurturing his football talent after a session with AFC Bournemouth. "All my friends come here, and we can play football, pool or Play Station together. My mum knows I am safe," he said. Thirteen-year-old Lexie, who has attended since the reopening, stated she would otherwise be "sitting at home bored."
Parents have expressed deep appreciation. Kelly, mother of nine-year-old Jensen, praised the welcoming and communicative staff. Vicky, mother to Jacob, highlighted how the club has helped her son, who experiences anxiety, step out of his comfort zone in a setting where he feels safe.
A Model for the Future
SWRAC hopes its success will inspire other organisations. "Our aim now is to encourage other altruistic companies to do similar things, perhaps opening closed youth clubs in their areas," said Adrian Gunner. "We hope that by showing it isn't a risky or ridiculously expensive venture, organisations will also step forward."
Peter Cooper, the Labour councillor for Hamworthy and a former youth worker, encapsulated the club's value. "The youth club was the beating heart in this community, and everyone suffered a huge loss when it closed," he remarked. "Young people have a warm safe space where they can be themselves... There is so much pressure on children and young people these days and time out in a youth club is a breath of fresh air."
This initiative in Poole stands as a powerful testament to how specialist educational providers can successfully extend their ethos of support into the wider community, creating a vital, fun, and secure hub for local youth.
