The hub, located at Futures Park in Bacup, aims to equip young individuals with the necessary skills, confidence, and opportunities to progress into work, education, or training. It is a collaborative effort involving Rossendale Borough Council, Active Lancashire’s Rossendale Works programme, and the DWP, with contributions from local partners.
The initiative offers personalised, one-to-one guidance to help young people build confidence, develop essential life and employability skills, and explore avenues such as volunteering and work experience. The 12-week development programme will run on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 3pm at Futures Park.
Key skills covered include budgeting and money management, housing awareness, teamwork and communication, CV writing, job application techniques, workplace readiness, and fostering independence.
In parallel, Rossendale Works is expanding opportunities across various Rossendale Leisure Trust sites. A separate Resilience Hub, supported by £35,000 from the council's Crisis and Resilience Fund, will operate at the Adrenaline Centre in Haslingden, offering sports classes, indoor football, and a 12-week resilience course for individuals over 25.
Councillor Alyson Barnes, Leader of Rossendale Borough Council, expressed her support, stating, “We want young people in Rossendale to have the support and opportunities they need to take their next steps.” She highlighted that the hub addresses the need for confidence and broader support beyond just job applications, connecting young people with employers and local services.
Paul Becouarn, Community Partnerships Manager at Active Lancashire, added, “We are thrilled to be working with DWP and Rossendale Borough Council on this project for young people.” He emphasised the role of physical activity in boosting confidence and wellbeing.
This Youth Hub is part of a national government commitment to establish similar support centres across Great Britain, aiming to assist nearly one million young people not currently in education, employment, or training. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden noted that the hub represents a significant step forward in delivering community-based support and opportunity.
