Youth support service anticipates challenging winter amid funding concerns

A drop-in facility for teenagers has indicated that “it may struggle to keep its head above water” if the forthcoming Budget intensifies winter financial pressures for the families of the young people who utilise its services. The Swan Youth Project, situated in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, currently receives a grant from the town council. Project manager Parul Dix stated that the council has been an “amazing advocate” for the service, but also noted their reliance on other grants, which have been diminishing. She informed the BBC: “It is going to be a tough winter, and we do not know what funding cuts will look like, but we could see increasing numbers of families struggling for food.” The Treasury has been approached for comment. For nearly 30 years, the project has welcomed 12 to 18-year-olds in the town, operating from the site of a former 16th-century coaching inn named The Swan. It opens its doors every weekday during both school terms and school holidays, offering a diverse array of activities, both organised and casual, along with a welcoming environment for friends to gather and relax. Mrs. Dix, who has served as manager for four years, confirmed that they ensure the young people receive a hot meal every day. She explained: “By giving them food, they are focused on their education, able to do their homework, and have better relationships at home.” Even in Berkhamsted, a location often perceived as affluent, queues are observed at the local pantries. Although the immediate future of the project is secure, Mrs. Dix is concerned that if funding is reduced, this stability could change, potentially leading to an increase in anti-social behaviour if young people have no other place to go. She asserted: “We need to be investing in youth; otherwise, we’re creating problems for the long term.” Lex, a regular visitor, has contended with depression and anxiety for “quite a while”. He told the BBC: “I don’t think I’d still be here if it wasn’t for The Swan Youth Project.” “The Swan has been one of my biggest supporters. Parul sat with me in hospital for several hours, just to make sure I was OK.” He expressed the view that more such places are needed in Berkhamsted; otherwise, teenagers would simply “end up at the skate park and getting mixed up with the wrong crowd.” Megan has been attending The Swan for four years and volunteers every Monday. She mentioned that she enjoys discussing her Christian faith and being able to share her struggles with anxiety in a safe environment. She informed the BBC that “insane waiting lists” for mental health services meant she had to rely on the project. “You get seen the minute you come through the door,” she stated, adding that “other mental health professional services have not had anyone as kind and caring as they [the project] have been.” Alexi indicated that The Swan had provided significant assistance to him as he “struggles with his emotions.” He remarked: “Having some place where I feel comfortable practising conversing helps.” “I would not be able to get a job without social skills, so without this project I would be crumbling.” News from Beds, Herts, and Bucks can be followed on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.