The YES building - Youth Empowerment Solutions for Hackney

Project aims: The YES building will house a multi-purpose community resource and youth diversion centre, targeted at disadvantaged young people in Hackney. The centre will aim to support the young people's transition to adulthood through the provision of culturally appropriate training, employment and learning opportunities.

Lead organisation(s): Hackney Council for Voluntary Service, and Inner Circle developers.

Client group: Young people in LB Hackney, aged 14-25, who are not currently education, employment or training and are at risk of exclusion.

Programme delivery: The centre will provide a range of services, including

• information, advice and guidance (e.g. legal, welfare, housing support or counselling)
• gang outreach and weapons awareness, and drugs awareness
• help with CVs, finding employment, and support for small business start up.

The centre will establish a number of career development and further education progression routes with BG Sixth Form College, Hackney Community College, training and apprenticeships in the music, TV and dance industries.

Funding: Building costs will be in the region of £3-4m.

Contact details: Jake Ferguson on 020 7923 1962 or jake@hcvs.org.uk.