A youth charity in Hampshire has been selected by Totton and Eling Town Council to operate an open access youth work service at a centre in Totton.

Youth Options, a charity established in 1937, works with vulnerable young people across Hampshire. The charity aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged youth whilst reducing instances of anti-social behaviour. The services that Youth Options will be offering at The Garage in Totton from September onwards include informal learning resources, as well as information and guidance which aim to educate children and young people about life choices and opportunities.

The charity has worked in other areas of Hampshire, working collaboratively with statutory bodies such as primary and secondary schools, and other voluntary organisations throughout the county, tailoring resources and activities to educate and empower young people at risk of poverty or unemployment. Youth Options tailor their services to the needs of the children they work with, whether that is operating a youth centre, outdoor group learning, or individual support.

Youth Options believes that developing the social and emotional skills of children and young people in these open access youth centres can increase their educational attainment and improve mental and physical health, thereby reducing the chances of vulnerable and disadvantaged young people falling into cycles of crime or addiction.

Debbie Burns, CEO at Youth Options, commented:

We are delighted to have been selected by Totton and Eling Town Council to deliver youth services from The Garage Youth Centre. The staff at the Garage are dedicated and committed and we can’t wait to have them join the Youth Options team. We look forward to providing a range of high-quality services that meet the needs of children and young people in the local area.

To find out more about the work of Youth Options in Hampshire, click here.