Joy as new youth club officially opens doors in Chester

Amid nationwide closures, Upton-by-Chester's The Heath has bucked the trend and opened its doors to great fanfare on Friday, November 10.

Lord Mayor of Chester Sheila Little cuts the cake.

With funding from residents, local business leaders and borough councillors, The Heath is a new youth club set up based out of Upton's United Reformed Church on Heath Road (by the Wheatsheaf) for children in Years 7 and above (aged 11+).

Newton and Hoole Councillor Adam Langan and cabinet member for children and young families, said: “As youth clubs have closed across the country The Heath is bucking the trend.

“This is exciting for young people in Upton and Chester. I can’t wait to visit and see it in action.”

Trustees Ruth Wilson, Cllr Matt Carter and Cllr Ben Walker with Blacon councillors Alan Smith and Carol Gahan and Upton councillor Sherin Akhtar.

Ben Walker, councillor for Chester's city centre and the Garden Quarter, and a trustee for the club since 2019, said: "It's been a long journey to get us where we are. We soft launched a few weeks back to kids and have averaged 15 participants a session.

"But the fight to staying open has only just begun. We're employing staff, but we need more money to last longer than a few years. We need more money to buy in better kit and equipment for kids who need it most.

"And we are always open to welcoming new trustees to our cause, to bring energy and enthusiasm to youth provision in Chester.

"Special thanks to Beth Bensley who's lead the charge as our lead youth worker here. Without her we would not be where we are today.

"Special thanks also to Ruth Wilson, Terri Dudley and Jill Houlbrook for their long advocacy towards youth provision in Upton."

For children for whom the school day can be hard or stressful, The Heath will be their safe space to take it easy, play ping pong, video games, or learn new skills such as making pizza or arts and crafts.

Upton ward councillor Sherin Akhtar said: “Growing up, I attended youth clubs and the skills I learnt, the people I met and the memories I made will remain with me forever.

“I am very excited for the young people in Upton as this is much needed and will certainly make a positive impact on their lives.

“The Heath Youth Club will have my full support and I look forward to seeing all the exciting work.”