Youth Uplift project launches to support young people in Andover
Around 30 young people in Andover who are homeless or living in refuge will soon have access to free leisure memberships, skills training and work placements thanks to a new project called Youth Uplift. The initiative is being delivered by Places Leisure in partnership with local charities Yellow Brick Road and Alabare, with funding support from Test Valley Borough Council through a £500 Councillor Community Grant.
Each participant will receive a free premium membership at Andover Leisure Centre, giving full access to the gym, swimming pool and group exercise classes. They will also take part in a structured work placement programme, supported by a dedicated member of the Places Leisure team, to help build confidence and employability.
The project includes training opportunities such as the NPLQ lifeguard qualification, first aid at work, customer service training and workshops on CV writing and interview skills. Additional opportunities will be explored through Places for People Thrive and partnerships with Itchen College, Andover College and Palladium, which manages the Hampshire Employment Agency Contract. The aim is to provide sustained, high-impact support that improves physical and mental health, builds confidence and self-esteem, and increases opportunities for paid work, helping young people move towards independent living.
The council’s grant will help fund sports clothing and trainers for those who need them, ensuring no one is excluded from taking part. This approach has already worked successfully for similar programmes supporting survivors of domestic abuse.
Councillor Iris Andersen, who represents Andover St Mary’s Ward, said: “Youth Uplift is a fantastic example of how local organisations can work together to make a real difference. By improving health and creating pathways to employment, this project gives young people the tools they need to move forward and thrive.”
Danny Churcher, manager at Places Leisure, added; “We’re proud to launch Youth Uplift in partnership with local charities with funding support from Test Valley Borough Council and Andover Town Council. This project is about more than access to leisure facilities - we’re giving young people the chance to build confidence, learn new skills and take steps towards a brighter future. By combining health, wellbeing and employability support, we hope to make a lasting difference in their lives.”
Councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said; “I’m proud of Andover for coming together to support young people who need it most. Youth Uplift shows the power of partnership in our community. By bringing together local charities, businesses and organisations, young people are given the chance to improve their wellbeing and build a future with real opportunities. This is a great example of how working together can make a lasting difference.”
Places Leisure operates public leisure facilities on behalf of local authorities and works to positively impact local communities through physical activity and health and wellbeing initiatives. For more information about Youth Uplift, visit Andover Leisure Centre or contact Places Leisure.