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On Monday 31 March, the Dunstable Conference Centre came alive as Dunstable Town Council hosted a brand new under-18s night with the support of Central Bedfordshire Council. The event was a resounding success, providing a lively opportunity for local young people to enjoy music, dancing, and time with their friends in a safe and welcoming environment.
A major highlight of the evening was a performance by local singer Megan Rice. Megan performed songs that encouraged the young people to dance and sing along. Craig Raymond, from Perfect Personalised Parties, was DJ for the night as well as providing a 360‑degree spin photobooth and arranging food and drink.
The evening served as a double celebration, marking the successful conclusion of the two-year Million Hours funded project. This initiative has been instrumental in providing enriched activities and support for young people across the community over the last 24 months. The night also marked the first three years of Central Bedfordshire Council funding two nights of detached youth work. (This funding is in place for the coming 12 months as well and will see three nights per week of detached youth work).
The Town Mayor of Dunstable, Cllr Sally Kimondo, attended the event.
"It was a fantastic evening and lovely to see young people enjoying themselves and having a good time with friends and making new ones. I thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the young people and was even invited to dance with them on the dance floor!
This event also highlights the incredible work our youth workers do day in and day out. Their dedication to building relationships and providing a safe space for our younger generation is truly inspiring. They are a vital link in our community and seeing the trust and respect the young people have for them shows just how much of a positive impact they are making on the lives of Dunstable’s youth."
Councillor Kimondo
The Future of Youth Support in Dunstable
While the Million Hours funding has come to an end, Dunstable Town Council is pleased to confirm that support for the town’s young people remains a top priority. Detached youth work will continue, thanks to ongoing funding from Central Bedfordshire Council, and the Town Council will continue to deliver centre based youth work from Grove Corner throughout the week.
Youth workers will maintain a consistent presence across Dunstable, engaging directly with young people in the community three nights a week. The Council remains committed to ensuring young people feel seen, heard, and supported.
New Detached Youth Work Schedule:
- Mondays: 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm
- Wednesdays: 3.15 pm to 5.15 pm
- Thursdays: 4 pm to 6 pm
To find out where youth workers will be WhatsApp 07400 561496 or visit Instagram @grovecorner
To find out about Grove Corner youth work sessions visit:www.dunstable.gov.uk/young-people/
