News-Supporting County Durham's care leavers

We've opened the safe space at Stanley Leisure Centre for young people to drop in to for help and advice across the week.

Making everyone feel safe and supported

Care leavers and staff celebrate the opening of the hub in Stanley.

Advisors will be on hand to offer emotional support, help with education, training, employment and health needs as well as crisis support and help with finances.

It's our second care leavers' hub, with one having previously opened in Sherburn for planned events.

Cllr Ted Henderson, Cabinet member for children and young people's services, said: "It's so important that our young people know that even though they are leaving or have already left care, we haven't stopped caring about them. We want to make everyone feel safe and supported and the hub's doors are open to offer a warm welcome to all.

"Whether they want advice on something specific or just want to spend time with other care leavers, make friends and feel understood, we can reassure young people that help and support is at hand. We would encourage everyone to make the most of the space and widen their support network even further."

Lots on offer

In addition to advice, the hub will offer free snacks, food parcels and items of clothing such as winter coats. It also features a pool table and table tennis as well as planned sessions like crafts and graffiti arts, so young people can learn new skills and meet people. 

The hub is open from 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday, with evening and weekend sessions also planned.