‘New’ youth facility opens in Welshpool

A national charity that is focussed on engaging with young people has opened its Welshpool operation, a its first in Wales.

In a media statement, the Feathers Association, who are celebrating 90 years, said it was proud to open its first facility and expansion into Wales, with the mission to ‘provide aspirational youth and community programmes and inspire lives’.

The centre, located at the former youth club building, has been designed to support children, young people, and the broader community, and marks a significant milestone as the Association expands its reach outside of London and Glasgow.

It will initially open its doors on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6pm-8.30pm, but recognising the growing needs of the community, there are immediate plans to extend its hours to include after-school programmes every evening and activities on weekends soon.

So, what does it entail?

The Feathers team said it has developed a comprehensive calendar of activities to engage and support all visitors to the centre. Welcoming children, young people, families and members of the wider community, all can enjoy:

• Club nights featuring games, sports, arts and crafts, PS5 gaming, and music sessions.
• Opportunities to seek information and support from dedicated team members.
• Nutritious food offerings.
• Gardening clubs and activities for the wider community members too.

Starting in June, the centre will also introduce a bike maintenance programme every Monday, further expanding the range of services available to the community.

Operated by community workers, alongside a wider team currently in recruitment, the centre is also creating new job opportunities within the local area.

The Feathers Association is also in discussions with various third-party organisations to establish partnerships that will enhance the programme of activities available with details of these collaborations to be announced shortly.

British champion shot putter and Olympic bobsledder Adele Nicoll, from Welshpool, visited the centre on its opening day this week and said: “The building that The Feathers Association has opened in my hometown will become a vital hub and safe space for young people and members of the community.

“It will help foster a sense of community and belonging. It will offer essential services such as mental health support, educational programs, and recreational activities. Overall enhancing youth wellbeing.  It was really special to be there and I couldn’t be more grateful that The Feathers Association has come to Welshpool.”

David Jones, The Feathers Association CEO, added: “The opening of Feathers Welshpool in this new facility is extremely exciting.

“It is a testament to The Feathers Association’s ongoing commitment to providing opportunities not readily available to local communities across England and Wales.

“As the charity celebrates 90 years providing support and a safe space to enjoy social, educational and activities in the sports and arts space, we look forward to continuing our mission to empower and uplift those we work closely with.”

Who are the Feathers Association?

The 90^th anniversary is a milestone for the charity. Initially opened to support those in need, in 1934’s depression, The Feathers Association moved in to youth and community work after the second world war and has continued to support communities ever since.  A programme of celebratory activity will be unveiled.

Location

Feathers Welshpool is situated at Howell Drive, Welshpool, Powys. SY21 7AT

Opening hours are currently Monday-Wednesday, from 6pm-8.30pm

PICTURE: Jade Holkham, Feathers Volunteer; Gwen Evans, Club Leisure Manager Welshpool & Newtown; Michelle Vorel-Adams, Business & Innovation Director, Feathers; Adele Nicoll, British Olympian, Feathers Association Ambassador; and David Jones, Feathers CEO; at the opening of Feathers Welshpool.