Darlaston Youth Centre

Darlaston Youth Centre is a UK-based registered charity (charity number 1178605) and company limited by guarantee, dedicated to serving children, young people, and families in the Darlaston area. Established in its current form in June 2016, the centre evolved from the original Darlaston Boys Club founded in 1968, which aimed to address the needs of young men in the local community. After a period of decline marked by disrepair and vandalism, the organisation was revitalised with a renewed focus on youth participation and empowerment[4][1].

Mission and Objectives

The Centre is fundamentally committed to youth engagement and upholding the principles of equal opportunities, equity, diversity, and community participation. It prioritises working with young people in a holistic way to empower them to make informed choices, raise their aspirations, motivation, and self-belief, and develop skills that enhance their life chances. Darlaston Youth Centre specialises in delivering innovative and challenging projects that explore sensitive and taboo subjects, aiming to bring about significant positive changes in the lives of young people and the wider community[4].

A core part of its mission is to address racial tensions and break down barriers among young people, facilitating dialogue to promote community cohesion. The Centre acts as a hub for community cohesion not only for young people but also for professionals, practitioners, and decision-makers by informing best practices and challenging oppressive practices and entrenched attitudes[4].

Activities and Services

Darlaston Youth Centre provides a variety of facilities and services that are accessible to young people, professionals, and community groups. Its premises can be used for workshops, meetings, conferences, and celebratory events. The Centre welcomes young people aged 9 to 19 years old to register as members and engage in its range of programs and activities tailored to youth development[1].

Governance and Financial Information

The charity is governed by a board of four trustees and supported by eight volunteers. It employs staff but does not have any employees receiving total benefits over £60,000. The charity does not have trading subsidiaries, and trustees do not receive remuneration for their roles[2].

For the financial year ending June 30, 2024, Darlaston Youth Centre reported a total income of £101,102 and total expenditure of £87,499, demonstrating sound financial stewardship within the organisation[2].

This organisation plays a vital role in fostering youth empowerment and community cohesion within Darlaston, combining innovative programming with a strong commitment to social welfare and inclusion.

[1] https://darlastonyouthcentre.co.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regId=1178605&subId=0 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5113565/contact-information [4] https://darlastonyouthcentre.co.uk/home/how-it-all-began [5] https://www.charitychoice.co.uk/darlaston-youth-centre-264583