A LIFELINE youth club which has been supporting youngsters in the Dearne have issued an urgent appeal for new premises - and volunteers admit if they can’t find them soon the club could cease to exist.
Dearne Kids’ Group runs out of Houghton Road Community Centre in Thurnscoe twice a week - on Mondays on Thursdays.
The cash-strapped club have previously appealed for locals to help them fundraise to pay for the rent, but they’ve just been told they will need to vacate the premises and move into a smaller venue.
However, Connor Fay from the club says this isn’t something they are able to do.
He told the Chronicle: “We run regular sessions where young people can socialise, take part in activities, and build friendships in a positive environment.
“For many of the children we work with, this is somewhere they feel comfortable, included, and supported.
“Our aim is to give young people a sense of belonging, keep them engaged in something constructive, and provide a place where they can be themselves.
“For some, this is a vital part of their routine and support network.
“Everything we provide is funded through our own fundraising efforts, which makes having a suitable space even more important, as we need to safely store equipment and resources we’ve worked hard to provide.
“It has been disappointing that, so far, we haven’t seen the level of support we would have hoped for in helping us retain a suitable space.
“We strongly believe that facilities for children and young people should be a priority within the community.
“Right now, we are focused on finding a solution and making sure the young people we support don’t lose out.”
Connor added that they are struggling to find a suitable location and that without one, they may cease to exist in the near future.
He added: “As a self-funded organisation, we rely heavily on our own fundraising efforts to provide activities, resources, and support for the children we work with.
“This means we also need adequate, secure storage for equipment and supplies that we have worked hard to fundraise for.
“The proposed space simply does not meet these basic needs.
“We feel this decision does not reflect the needs or importance of the children and young people we support.
“As a result, we are now in the position of having to find an alternative space within a very short timeframe.
“Despite actively searching, we are struggling to secure an affordable and appropriate location.
“This is not just about losing a building.
“The group provides a vital, safe environment where children can socialise, access support, and feel part of something positive.
“For many, this is a lifeline.
“Without a suitable space, we risk having to significantly reduce or even lose these services.”
They are asking anyone if they know of a suitable space they can use if any local organisations or businesses can offer support and for locals to share their story far and wide.
