There’s a new, vibrant hangout in Cheltenham for young people looking for somewhere welcoming to spend their time.
Smokey Joe’s, an American vintage-style retro diner and arts venue, has launched its first Youth Café pilot.
It is a dedicated space designed to provide a safe, inclusive environment where young people can relax, connect and get creative.
Lyndon Godding, Smokey Joe’s Owner, told Park Life after the launch last week [Thursday, February 12] that “it was a very enjoyable afternoon, everyone was well behaved and engaged, doing homework or enjoying the music workshop, playing board and card games.”
“It felt good to be giving back, to see and know that because of this space, the kids weren’t roaming the streets.
“Before Covid, we did a lot of community-led things,” Lyndon added. “It felt like a return to what we used to do and I feel very positive about the numbers of children who turned up.”
Sheila Gordon said on Facebook: “Smokey Joe’s is a great place, how fab that they are opening their doors, a great opportunity.”
In conjunction with No Child Left Behind (NCLB), every Thursday afternoon between 3.30pm and 6.30pm the cafe gives young people a safe and fun place to spend time and connect with others.
Daniel Cunningham from The Music Works told the BBC that there is “not a lot on offer for young people”, with the charity offering the use of its music and production equipment to attendees.
Cheltenham borough councillor Victoria Atherstone said: “I am extremely excited about this youth space project, slap bang in Cheltenham’s town centre, offering the right vibe and access to free activities, food and drink.
“We listened to the voices of young people and thanks to funding and partnership collaboration we have been able to turn this suggestion into a real opportunity.”
Funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Problem Solving Fund the project is in response to last year’s NCLB Year in Youth Action including outreach youth work by The Rock, Cheltenham, alongside consultation carried out by Springbank Community Group CiC. Young Voices highlighted the lack of an affordable and dedicated space in town for young people to safely gather.
