Make a path to the Pathfinders

The Pathfinders Hub – which has been set up by the Council in Villiers Street – is a place where the young people can come and get lots of support and talk to staff face-to-face five days a week.

It includes an area where they can relax and take time out, and a private and confidential consultation room.

The Hub hosts the three Children in Care Council groups, a parent and toddler group, an LGBTQ group, a UASC group and an independent living skills group.

It’s also the point of contact for the Council’s new Staying Close project, which supports young people getting ready to leave or having recently left residential care.

Councillor Jim Lindridge and the Vice-Chair of the Children’s Services Committee Councillor Brian Cowie (centre) pictured with (from left) Pathfinders team members Rebecca Hunter, Chantel Dryden, Daisy Moran, Lisa Cushlow and Ellie Hay

Councillor Jim Lindridge, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “The Pathfinders Hub is a fun, safe space which the young people can call their own – a ‘home from home’ where they can meet others of the same age, with help on hand if and when they need it.

“There’s a warm welcome guaranteed, in an environment where they can build their confidence, grow their aspirations and get the support they need to live their best lives.”

Ellie Hay, a care-leaver who is now a member of the Pathfinders team, said: “The Pathfinders Hub is a fantastic place which opens up so many opportunities for the young people.

“It’s somewhere where they can come and be themselves, relax, not be judged and get lots of support and advice if they need it.”

The Pathfinders Hub is open from 9am to 5pm every weekday. To find out more, drop in or give the team a call on 01429 405588.

Councillor Jim Lindridge (left), Ellie Hay and Councillor Brian Cowie in the Pathfinders Hub