New youth support hub opens in County Durham

A new community hub has opened in County Durham, bringing together services and activities to help children and young people access support, develop skills and improve their wellbeing.

Durham County Council has launched Next Chapter, a Young Futures Hub based at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre, as part of a Government-backed pilot programme.

The initiative aims to make support more accessible while helping young people build confidence, develop positive relationships and strengthen their sense of belonging.

Open to children and young people aged ten to 18, or up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the hub offers a mix of drop-in activities and organised sessions.

These include arts and crafts, sports, volunteering, skills-based projects and social events, alongside opportunities to cook and share meals.

Visitors can also use the space to relax, socialise and access guidance.

Councillor Cathy Hunt, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “We are so pleased to see Next Chapter open.

“It will be an important lifeline for children and young people in the area and we’re looking forward to seeing the positive benefits it will bring.

“We have worked closely with young people throughout the development of the hub, and will continue to do so, to make sure we get their views on what they want Next Chapter to become.

“They were clear that they not only wanted it to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming space where they can speak to trusted adults to get the information they need, but also a place where they can have fun and chill out.

“This is what we have set out to do.”

The wider Government programme has allocated £2 million to pilot areas for developing facilities, alongside £4 million from the Local Youth Transformation Fund to support youth services.

Following the development of Next Chapter, Durham County Council has also been selected to establish a second Young Futures Hub.

Its location will be determined through consultation with young people and partner organisations, helping ensure future services meet local needs.

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