Expanded Youth Programme at The Station Youth Centre Sees Positive Uptake

Hailsham Youth Service, managed and funded by Hailsham Town Council, is reporting excellent attendance and enthusiastic engagement following the introduction of several new youth clubs at the The Station Youth Centre in Western Road.

Since their launch over the course of the last 18 months, the new sessions have attracted young people aged 10 to 25 from Hailsham and the surrounding area, offering a broad and inclusive programme of activities designed to support personal development and social connection in a safe and welcoming environment.

A Diverse Weekly Programme

The expanded timetable reflects the varied interests and needs of local young people:

The Lounge takes place on Mondays from 3.15pm to 5.15pm for school years 6 to 12. The session provides an informal after-school setting featuring board games and activities, alongside refreshments. Entry is free and no advance registration is required.

Fusion, held on Monday evenings from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, focuses on creative arts. Young people can explore music, drama and multimedia projects, with opportunities for collaborative jam sessions and creative expression across different genres.

Network@The Underground meets every other Friday from 7pm to 9pm for 18 to 25-year-olds. The session offers a relaxed and sociable space with pool, air hockey, games and refreshments, helping young adults remain connected to their local community.

On Track Hailsham, delivered on Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm, supports young people aged 8 to 25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Activities are tailored to promote independence and social skills, with an enhanced staff-to-young-person ratio to ensure a supportive and inclusive experience.

The Underground @The Station operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3.15pm to 5.15pm (school years 6-8) and 6.15pm to 8.30pm (school years 9-12), as well as Fridays from 3.15pm to 5.15pm (school years 6-11).

In addition, the Service has recently assumed responsibility for Teens & Tweens, a Thursday drop-in session held from 11am to 1pm. The group primarily welcomes secondary-age home-educated young people and their younger siblings, providing structured social opportunities and activities shaped by the interests of attendees and the input of parents and carers.

Positive Impact on Young People

Andy Joyes, Youth Service Manager, said: “The Station Youth Centre offers a safe, inspiring space where young people can develop new skills, build friendships and feel part of a supportive community. The strong attendance at these new sessions demonstrates the demand for accessible, high-quality youth provision in Hailsham.”

“Each club has been designed to reflect the interests of local young people while encouraging teamwork, creativity and personal growth. Whether through games, music, arts or social activities, we are committed to providing opportunities that help reduce isolation and promote positive wellbeing.”

Mr Joyes added: “We are particularly pleased to expand our offer with sessions such as Teens & Tweens, which provide an inclusive and welcoming setting for home-educated young people. Our aim across all programmes is to ensure that young people have a voice in shaping their experience, enabling them to explore new interests and develop confidence in a relaxed and friendly environment.”

Encouraging Participation

Parents and guardians are encouraged to support their children’s involvement in these constructive and engaging activities. The Service remains committed to delivering accessible, inclusive youth provision that benefits both young people and the wider community.

For further information about youth clubs and additional services, please contact Hailsham Youth Service on 01323 841702 or email youth@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.