A community youth initiative funded by West Bromwich Building Society Foundation is celebrating its first anniversary after supporting hundreds of local young people and becoming a vital after‑school space.

Based at YMCA Black Country Group’s Coffee at The Clock, the YMCA Youth Café officially opened on 9 June 2025 and has since recorded more than 3000 attendances, with around 85 young people regularly taking part, aged 11–16.

Created as a safe and welcoming after‑school space, the café gives young people somewhere to socialise, access support and take part in a variety of activities. The café, which is open on weekdays during term time, offers a relaxed environment where young people can build friendships, confidence and learn new skills.

Over the past year, the café has developed into a hub of activity, with young people taking part in sports, games, arts and crafts, gaming and anime sessions – with some sessions developed according to the interests of the young people attending.

Alongside social activities, the café also supports informal learning and skills development, with participants gaining hands‑on experience in the café itself, including learning barista skills and cash handling skills at the café till.

At the heart of the project is a dedicated youth worker, funded by the Foundation, who runs the sessions and provides informal mentoring. This helps facilitate early support, guidance and signposting, and is delivered through everyday conversations and relationships built over time.

Shantania, Youth Worker at the YMCA Youth Café, said: “This café is so much more than somewhere to spend time after school. It’s a space where young people feel safe and able to be themselves. Over the past year, we’ve seen them grow in confidence, form strong friendships and try new things, whether that’s creative activities, group sessions or gaining practical experience in the café. Being able to support them on that journey is incredibly rewarding.”

The Youth Café was one of the first projects funded by West Bromwich Building Society Foundation, established in 2024 to support community initiatives and create opportunities for local people.

Jonathan Westhoff, Trustee of West Bromwich Building Society Foundation, said: “We’re incredibly proud to see how the Youth Café has developed over its first year. From the outset, this project was about creating a positive, preventative space for young people in the heart of the community.

“The demand and regular attendance show just how important that is. By funding a dedicated youth worker, we’ve invested in lasting relationships and long‑term impact, helping young people feel supported and inspired about their future.”

Delivered in partnership with YMCA Black Country Group and supported by local organisations including Powered By CAN, the café demonstrates the impact of strong community collaboration.

As it enters its second year, the focus of the youth cafe remains on maintaining a safe space for young people, while supporting pathways into education, employment and ensuring the young people attending continue to feel connected, supported and confident.