New Youth Cafe opens in Sidmouth

A new Youth Cafe has opened in Sidmouth, providing a safe and fun place for youngsters to the enjoy themselves and ask questions about the issues troubling them.

The Youth Cafe is based in Sidmouth Youth Centre, Manstone Lane, and takes place every other Saturday. The cafe will next be open on Saturday, July 20, between 11am and 1pm. It is open to young people aged between 10 and 18.

The cafe serves food and drink, including chips, pizza, toasties, milkshakes, hot chocolate and smoothies.

Young Devon are coordinating youth services in the building, which is owned by Sidmouth Town Council.

Young Devon's lead worker coordinating the Youth Cafe, Hannah Vicarage, told Sidmouth Nub News: "It's a great space for girls and boys to ask questions about puberty and other teenage issues. There's no judgment here, we're happy to help.

"The cafe gives young people in Sidmouth a place that is both safe and fun. Our focus is creating a relaxed space for young people, we can offer advice and support as well as signpost youngsters to other relevant services.

"This all benefits the community as it reduces anti-social behaviour. If we can support youngsters with their problems it benefits the community as a whole. The core value of what we do is building relationships with young people.

Hannah added: "Any young adults over 15 can volunteer to work in the cafe. Official training will be given, helping them to build their skills, confidence and self-esteem."

Youth workers are on hand to talk to young people about a range of issues, including mental health, sexual health, bullying, substance abuse, alcohol abuse and any other problems they may be having at home or at school.

To find out more about the work of Young Devon in Sidmouth click the red button below.