A local community network has formed on the grounds of Errington Reserve in St Albans to help foster a safe space for young people in Brimbank.
On the evening of Thursday, October 19, Errington Reserve was transformed into a youth drop-in centre, featuring a free barbecue, special guests and giveaways for local youth.
Youth worker and drop-in centre director Sam Brown said he hopes the centre will operate as a way to give the reserve back to the community for its intended purposes, and to also provide a space for young people to visit without feeling at risk.
Mr Brown said the reserve is there to serve the whole community, from sporting clubs on game-day, to young people enjoying the playground and sports facilities, and groups making use of the public barbecue.
“Errington Reserve is an under-utilised space and the end goal is for that space be enjoyed and used to it’s full potential by the local St Albans community,” he said.
“It’s important to have because as well as the community deserving to have access to their reserve, all our young people need someone to affirm and support them towards being better. Having that right someone, in the right place, in an ongoing and regular capacity is vital to seeing this shift and this is a step in that right direction.“
The team spoke with local council on the day to discuss the potential to establish a weekly Youth Drop In Centre in Brimbank.
Mr Brown said the community can help to support local youth by participating in these initiatives and encouraging young people towards engaging with them.
“Our people deserve a safer community and all our young people deserve an opportunity at a better life,” he said.
