Picket Twenty’s new Level Up club gets off to a strong start
Picket Twenty Community Association has launched its new Level Up club for local young people, creating a friendly space to meet new people, play games and build confidence close to home. The idea for the club came from conversations with families, who said they would welcome more opportunities for young people to socialise in a relaxed and supportive setting. Centre volunteers also noticed growing interest in the games room during community events, which helped shape the idea into a regular session.
The first session took place at the end of January and welcomed six young people aged ten to twelve. Those who joined enjoyed a relaxed, free‑flow evening in the centre’s games room, complete with gaming, air hockey, unlimited pizza and snacks, and plenty of time to chat. Two centre volunteers helped run the session and joined in with the games, helping everyone feel comfortable and included.
Parents remained in the centre throughout the session and enjoyed tea, coffee and biscuits while chatting to one another. Many said the club offered a welcome chance for their children to socialise in a safe environment, while also giving them time to connect with other parents in the community.
Young people were asked to complete a short survey at the end of the evening. Their favourite parts included making new friends, playing in the hall, gaming together and enjoying the snacks. Suggestions for future sessions included adding board games, offering more activities, and opening up the VR headset.
The club has been supported by a £666 Councillor Community Grant from Test Valley Borough Council, awarded by councillors Nick Lodge and Chris Donnelly. The funding contributes to the £1,000 project cost and helps the association offer the sessions free of charge.
Feedback from the launch event will help shape future activities. The association plans to introduce board games, use the hall space once it becomes free at 7pm and open up the VR gaming area to increase capacity and offer more choice. The team hopes to run the club every two weeks once more volunteers are available, giving more young people the chance to attend and helping regular participants build lasting friendships.
Councillor Nick Lodge said: “It’s fantastic to see the first session go so well. The club is already making a difference and giving young people a place where they can feel included.”
Councillor Chris Donnelly added: “This is community spirit at its best. I’m looking forward to seeing how the club grows over the next few months.”
Test Valley Borough Council is proud to support projects like this, which bring people together, strengthen local connections and celebrate the work of volunteers.
Booking is essential. For more information or to book a place, contact Picket Twenty Community Association.