Inkwell launches new Youth Project - Take Over Café

/in /by

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new Youth project.

The Take Over Café is run by a group of young volunteers and aims to provide a safe, creative space for young people to relax, meet new friends, get creative and enjoy wholesome food.

The Take Over Café offers a safe and supportive environment for those aged 12 to 17 to discuss ideas about mental health, reduce stigma and improve wellbeing. We aim to support those who are struggling at home or in school, those who may experience bullying or social isolation and provide an inclusive, non-judgemental space where everyone is valued.

The evenings comprise of different craft activities such as jewellery making, batik, painting and more unusual things like making pet rocks. We’ll have plenty of quizzes, team games and activities. If that doesn’t sound like your thing, you’re welcome to come along just to chill out, listen to music, play games or even watch a film. An evening meal is also provided, where everyone sits down together and has chance to relax and chat.

The Take Over Café was introduced by one of Inkwell’s placement students, Jonathan De-Aston, who recognised the need for a new youth service in North Leeds. Speaking about the project, Jonathan said

“Through previous experience of working with young people, I am able to see the effect that bullying and social isolation can have on mental health, and I recognised the need for these young people to enjoy themselves in a place where they feel valued and important.

It seemed natural for the Take Over Café to provide creative activities, as we know this helps people to relax, try something new, build friendships and boost confidence. By having a team of young volunteers to host the evenings we are able to share common experiences and understand each other very well. We hope that our visitors will express their interests and we can give them ownership by letting them choose which activities we run.

We’re all very excited to see the impact of this project”

The Take Over Café will be run on the first and third Thursday of every month from 6pm – 9pm and will cost £1.50 per person. This fee includes all craft materials and a homemade meal.

For more information please contact Jonathan at: [email protected]

Tel: 0113 3070108