A New Community Youth Hub in Croydon

Introduction to the Oasis Community Space

A new community youth hub launched in Croydon, aiming to tackle youth loneliness and provide a safe, welcoming space for young people. The opening comes amid criticism of Croydon Council’s recent decision to cut its youth engagement team, a move the council describes as part of a broader “transformation” of youth services. On Monday (October 13), Oasis Academy Arena in South Norwood officially unveiled the Oasis Community Space, a new facility designed to support young people and families across the borough.

The Launch Event

Local residents, pupils, and community leaders attended the launch event, exploring the transformed venue, which will host youth programmes and family services in partnership with Palace for Life Foundation and Reaching Higher. Former Palace player Sean Scannell, who cut the ribbon to mark the hub’s opening, reflected on his own youth: “When I was growing up, we didn’t have many youth clubs, so you sometimes had to travel far. For this to be right in the centre of South Norwood is amazing.”

Former Palace player Sean Scannell opened the community hub on Monday
(Image: Oasis Academy)

Activities and Services

When the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) visited the hub, the space was alive with activity. Oasis students played table tennis, socialised, and took part in informal mentoring sessions with teachers and local community organisations. There was also a performance from the Oasis Academy Ryelands choir. Sydney Mae Box-Cameron, whose son uses the hub, told the LDRS: “This gives kids a safe space where they can have fun and aren’t forced to go. The people here are great influences.”

The Community Hub is open to children and parents throughout the week, providing a safe space to play and learn
(Image: Harrison Galliven)

Support from Local Leaders

The LDRS also spoke with Natasha Irons, MP for Croydon East, who said: “It’s amazing to have this wonderful community facility on our doorstep, not just for the community, but specifically for our young people.” She continued: “Having a partner like Oasis, which has a massive footprint in our borough, makes a big difference.”

Natasha Irons, MP for Croydon East, attended the launch on Monday
(Image: Natasha Irons MP)

Importance of Community Spaces

Reverend Steve Chalke OBE, founder of the Oasis Charitable Trust, and Mike Summers, CEO of Palace for Life Foundation, also addressed the audience. Revd Chalke stressed the importance of trusted community spaces: “Our children spend less than 20% of their waking hours in school. That’s why safe spaces, run by trusted partners and rooted in their communities, are so important.” Mr Summers highlighted the power of collaboration: “By working together, we can help young people, particularly those from the toughest backgrounds, build brighter futures.”

Council’s Response to Criticism

Despite the positive reception, Croydon Council continues to face criticism for recent cuts to youth services, which have led to job losses and reduced provision. Councillor Andy Stranack, who attended the launch, responded to concerns: “We are shifting finances away from centralised council control to trusted voluntary sector providers like Play Place, Palace for Life and Oasis. That’s where we want the money to go.”

Councillor Andy Stranack is the Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture
(Image: Harrison Galliven)

National Funding Cuts

Ms Irons also addressed the broader issue of national funding cuts: “We’ve seen a 73% reduction in youth funding across the country. Croydon has had to sell off its youth-focused buildings and dissolve its youth engagement team.” She warned: “With one in five children facing mental health issues, and young people among the loneliest in the country, there’s an urgent need to rebuild community spaces where they feel they belong and have a stake in the places they grow up.”

Conclusion

The Oasis Community Space is a positive step towards providing young people in Croydon with a safe and welcoming space to socialise, learn, and have fun. While there are still concerns about the council’s cuts to youth services, the launch of this new hub is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of investing in the well-being of young people.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Oasis Community Space?

The Oasis Community Space is a new facility designed to support young people and families across the borough of Croydon. It is located in the Oasis Academy Arena in South Norwood and will host youth programmes and family services in partnership with Palace for Life Foundation and Reaching Higher.

What activities and services will the hub offer?

The hub will offer a range of activities and services, including table tennis, socialisation, informal mentoring sessions, and performances from local schools. It will also provide a safe space for children and parents to play and learn throughout the week.

Why is the hub important for young people in Croydon?

The hub is important for young people in Croydon because it provides a safe and welcoming space for! them to socialise, learn, and have fun. It also addresses the issue of youth loneliness and provides a sense of community and belonging for young people in the