Hi again everyone. One of the best things about working on a Safer Neighbourhood Team is when I see things being achieved and ideas come to fruition.

The best of these at the moment is the new Northwick Park Youthclub. This club runs every Tuesday 1930 – 2130 and is aimed at kids between 11 – 18 years old. It is situated in the middle of Northwick Park itself in the Sports Pavilion there.

The idea of the club originally came from the Northwick Park Ward Sgt Andy Lester. He saw an opportunity to not only give the local youth something to do and engage with them but also to regenerate an under used and dilapidated sports pavilion. Having an inspiration is one thing, but turning that small seed of an idea into a flourishing reality is quite another matter. That is when all the hard work starts. In this case Sgt Lester set up a working group with Brent Council and St Cuthberts Church and between all parties raised £12,000 to fund the project.

The pavilion was regenerated with the council re-laying flooring, painting the walls, and improving security, as well as providing the space free of rent for six months. The partnership has purchased a pool table, table tennis, a large screen TV, Playstations, arts and craft equipment, and some comfy sofas as a chill out area.

Youth workers from the local church attend the club and the local Safer Neighbourhood Team provide a presence at opening and closing times. The kids are able to decide on how the club is run and what facilities they want, and how the remaining budget will be spent.

On Tuesday, the second time it was opened, the club attracted over 30 young people. Their reactions have been extremely positive. One of the most common things that young people say to us as we walk around is that ‘there is nothing to do’. This club provides something to do in a safe environment and lets them know that the police aren’t aliens with two grumpy heads.

If you want to know more please contact the Northwick Park team on 0208 721 2969 Keep well and keep safe Neil