Heads Up - we have a new youth safe space in town!

Heads Up - a new drop-in safe space for “older young people” will get off the ground at The Hub, 2 Albert Street in Kirkwall on Tuesday evening, from 7pm-9pm.

Young people, aged 16-25, can head to The Hub to relax with peers and take part in some of the activities on offer – from panini and toastie making to cactus planting, Jenga or gaming on the big screen.

There will be a couple of the Council’s Community Learning, Development & Employability staff on hand to offer a friendly, listening ear and support if that’s being sought.

Sessions are planned until the end of June to gauge interest in the new venture.

Each Tuesday evening there will be new activities on offer, from movie nights to marshmallow toasting, crafting to games.

Kerry Spence, OIC Service Manager (Community Learning, Development & Employability), said: “The reason for safe spaces is to create places where young people can have their say, enjoy a home away from home and school away from school. They are also fun, safe, free and welcoming environments for young people to spend time and explore opportunities for social and personal development.

“We know that many of our young people will be on study leave ahead of exams, and this can be an even more stressful time in their lives. Some may have left school already and are feeling a bit more isolated or lonely – Heads Up offers a safe and welcoming place to go.

“Please come along and just chill out, or participate in the activities, or chat to our staff members – the choice is absolutely yours.”