A leisure centre in Durham has been transformed into a community hub supporting young people transitioning out of care.
Durham County Council chose The Louisa Centre as the location for the new Connect hub to give care leavers easier access to other facilities and help them to build links and networks in the local community.
Designed for young people aged 18 to 25, Connect offers structured drop-in sessions, group workshops and one-on-one support throughout the week.
On-site advisors provide both emotional and physical wellbeing support and promote independent skills to ease the transition to adulthood. Care leavers receive support in all areas from health, education and training to finances, employment and crisis support.
With a light, open and uplifting design, the hub also offers recreational activities, including a pool table and table tennis as well as creative sessions like crafts and art workshops to encourage social interaction. Free snacks, food parcels and clothing are also available.
Care leavers have also had the opportunity to complete work experience placements at the leisure centre, giving them valuable skills for the future.
The council is monitoring the impact of the hub through personal pathway plans, peer mentoring reviews and other metrics. The early results are positive, with increasing attendance levels and care leavers reporting improved emotional wellbeing and stronger community bonds with fellow Connect users and staff.
According to Alison Clark, Durham County Council’s head of culture, sport and tourism, the hub’s success is down to a collaborative approach between the council’s leisure and children and young people’s services, with leisure centre staff briefed on the specific needs of care leavers and how best to support the young people.
The teams meet regularly to ensure the smooth operation of the hub.
Clark said: “This integrated approach not only strengthens the role of The Louisa Centre as a community facility, but it also gives care leavers a sense of belonging, helps them feel valued, and provides opportunities for them to connect with others. They feel better understood and better accepted within the local community.
“This is an example of how traditional leisure centres can evolve into holistic wellbeing hubs. The co-location of services optimises use of public assets but also helps break down barriers for those who might otherwise not use leisure facilities.”