Cadbury Sixth Form College to Offer Free Safe Space for Young People

Cadbury Sixth Form College in Kings Norton, Birmingham, is set to provide a complimentary safe environment for children aged nine to 17. The college plans to conduct these sessions after school on Mondays and Wednesdays, as well as during weekends and school holiday periods. Designated SafeHaven, this new initiative aims to offer security and refuge to young individuals, incorporating a variety of creative and athletic pursuits. According to college principal Lydia Maher, the program is intended to contribute to establishing “brighter futures” for the local youth. Participants will have the chance to engage in activities such as music production and gaming, alongside receiving assistance with homework and vocational skills development. Creative Birmingham Arts Therapy UK, a charitable organization, will facilitate activities including hip-hop, graffiti, and drawing sessions, designed to foster the creativity of young participants. West Midlands Police stated that it obtained funding from Clarion Housing, a housing association, which has been allocated to resources like uniforms and gaming equipment. The police force expressed its expectation that this would enhance both accessibility to and participation in the program. PC Matt Shakespeare commented: “This project reinforces our commitment to supporting Birmingham’s youth and fostering a safer, more connected community.” Lydia Maher of the college indicated that SafeHaven is envisioned as a setting where young individuals can feel “empowered, safe and inspired.” She further stated: “This project aligns with our mission to not only educate but to actively engage with the community.” The sessions are scheduled to occur twice weekly, commencing at 16:00, with students aged nine to 13 participating on Mondays and teenagers aged 13 to 17 on Wednesdays.