New-look youth centre revealed
Joseph Buttice was one of the first to attend The Drum’s Radio Works training course. The results of a £78,000 makeover for the Drum Youth Centre on Whitecross Street, EC1 were revealed at a celebratory launch event last night, (Thursday 12 March).
A state-of-the-art music studio, radio equipment, computer suite and a brand new shop-front are all part of the transformation funded by EC1 New Deal for Communities (NDC), City YMCA and Islington Council.
The radio equipment will be used as part of a six-week training course, Drum Radio Works, for 16 to 19 year olds who have left school, are unemployed and not already on a training course. They will be taught communication and teamwork skills valuable for getting a job.
Joseph Buttice (22) spoke at the launch and said:
“When I first started the radio course I didn’t like the sound of my own voice, but recording made me feel more comfortable and helped a lot with my confidence. I wouldn’t have been able to get up and speak in front of all these people before.
I moved into this area about a year ago and the opportunities here have changed my life. I wish there was a Drum everywhere.”
Gillian Bowen, chief executive of City YMCA said:
“The concept for The Drum was developed by young people for young people. I feel that the centre truly demonstrates the creativity of local young people and has the potential to provide life-changing opportunities.”
Other services delivered from The Drum include sexual health advice, counselling and drop-in information, advice and guidance sessions.
The Drum Youth Centre refurbishment was funded by EC1 New Deal for Communities (£25,000) and City YMCA (£23,000). A grant from Islington Council and English Heritage funded the new shop-front (£28,000).
For more information about the Drum contact Claire Barham on 0207 549 0471 or claire.barham@cityymca.org.