On a cold winter night, the Damilola Taylor Centre in Peckham echoes with the sound of rain hitting the glass roof. Inside, a group of teenage boys engage in an intense basketball game with youth workers from the Active Communities Network, who oversee the ‘My Ends’ program in Southwark.
Sammy, a 14-year-old, mentions the long journey he takes to reach the center, emphasizing the positive impact it has had on him. Each teenager present that evening is aware of Damilola Taylor’s story and the significance of the place where they are playing basketball, reflecting on the ongoing impact of the tragic event.
Local MP Miatta Fahnbulleh talks about the need for safe spaces for young people, highlighting the inadequacies in current provisions. She envisions a future where every child in Peckham is within a short distance of a youth service by 2035.
The government’s new youth strategy, launched by Secretary of State Lisa Nandy in Peckham, aims to address the challenges faced by young people. With a significant investment of £500 million in youth services, the plan includes building or revamping 250 youth centers and establishing 50 ‘Young Futures Hubs’ for career and mental health support.
Fahnbulleh stresses the importance of restoring community spaces for young people, emphasizing the impact of loneliness and lack of belonging caused by past budget cuts. The Co-op Party advocates for inclusive shared spaces to combat the loneliness crisis and strengthen communities.
In Peckham, initiatives like MyEnds Southwark provide vital support for youth through activities like basketball sessions. Volunteers like Omar Mohamed play a crucial role in guiding young people away from negative influences and towards positive growth opportunities.
Participants in the basketball program express gratitude for the center, highlighting the positive changes it has brought to their lives. They emphasize the importance of having accessible youth services within their community for personal development and support.
Fahnbulleh is committed to delivering on her promise of accessible youth services in the area, aiming to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people. The focus remains on creating spaces where young individuals can thrive and feel a sense of belonging.