Charity youth club gives teens safe space to relax

Ismael, 16, says the youth club is "like a little community"

Teenagers have been given a safe space to hang out, in a bid to stop them becoming involved in gangs or negative activity.

Charity Phoebe, which supports and empowers black and ethnic minority groups, launched a Friday evening youth club in Ipswich.

Around 20 young people, aged 14 to 21, go to the session where they can socialise and take part in discussions before they have dinner.

CEO Mollin Delve said the youth night offered a “very positive alternative” that helped keep young people out of trouble and it was “really important” for the teenagers to “connect” with their peers.

Wilson, 17, (right) said: "It's hard to explain, it's loud, it's fun. Better then going around town and doing nothing"

The youth club moved into larger premises on Great Colman Street a year ago, which enabled it to run more support services.

On a typical evening, members socialise and listen to music before a short presentation and discussion, led by members of the group.

Volunteers and staff also cook an evening meal for the young people.

Ismael, 16, said he was aware of drug gangs actively recruiting young people they perceived as vulnerable.

He added: "It all goes down to the decisions you make, not wanting to be with certain people."

And Wilson, 17, said of the group: "It's hard to explain, it's loud, it's fun.

"Better then going around town and doing nothing"

Mollin Delve founded Phoebe after she arrived in Suffolk in 2002 from Zimbabwe as a social worker

Ms Delve said: "When we take them out to Alton Water or Felixstowe beach during the holidays, we know that's a diversion.

"They are boosting their mental health and obviously a full day in the countryside for a young person is a day away from trouble.

"Many of them are from African countries, it is really important for them to connect to peers from their own background."