New Centre Launch - The Gate

The Launch

We are going to write a report but after reading this email from a Stockton Borough Council worker we thought why not hear about the launch from one of the attendees themselves.

"As you know I went to the launch of 'A Way Out' last Wednesday. I am just providing you with some feedback of the event.   Firstly, the building is fantastic, Jessie and the team have transformed a derelict building into a home, a friendly and welcoming place for teens to drop-in, stay and socialise with other people.

The building consists of many interactive rooms, a living area equipped with sofas, dining table and a fire, a modern kitchen and spacious activity room. The most impressive rooms are downstairs and what Jessie calls the 'Cave'. This room is transformed into an arts and crafts area, computer games and internet room and a very impressive dance/chill out area. This room has a bar serving soft drinks, a mini dance studio with an employed professional dancer to teach the teens, sofas, pinball machines and a really trendy atmosphere that suits everyone as one person described 'it doesn't just suit the tracksuits and chavs!' .

This room is not only used by the teens that are established members of A Way Out but is a place for anyone to come when they are caught drinking on the streets. It offers a relaxing, fun and importantly a safe alternative to the streets. The building also offers a 'quiet room' where one-to-one support and counselling can be given to the teens.    

When viewing the rooms I had a chance to speak to some of the staff members, in particular the Alcohol Officer (Adam). He explained to me all of the different approaches they take when dealing with young people and alcohol, and it was very useful to see what others are doing! I mentioned Think b4 u Drink and suggested a meeting to discuss work - Jessie has suggested we all meet up to discuss this and future support which will be great!   The offices are located upstairs and are very new and spacious, they are presented as a very professional yet still relaxed setting. I was shown different paperwork that has to be filled in when people arrive at the building which was interesting, and they gave out little inspiring paper notes for staff!    

The day was pretty much run by the 'VIP'S' who are the teens who previously accessed the service and are now volunteers at the Gate. I had the chance to speak to some of them and was amazed to hear their story. One person I spoke to was a previous user and now with the help she has been given from A Way Out is going to University, and raising money for the charity by participating in extreme sports! It was really inspiring to speak to these people and to learn what A Way Out has done for them.  

We had a special guest to open the building, Jet from Gladiators!! It was really good to have someone who was actually brought up in Teesside and knew the area.  Unfortunately she did not perform any crazy acrobatics, but did deliver a warming and personal speech.  Jet now works for BBC Tees. Neil Schneider told Jessie she has his full support which is brill, and the mayor also noted upon his full support.   One thing I would like to point out was that everyone who worked or was a volunteer were extremely helpful and very friendly. One girl explained to me that it was like a big family and she has made a lot of friends she will have forever. This was evident as to how well everyone worked together.  

Overall, I cannot say one thing negative about this launch and the organisation.  It is clear a lot of hard work and dedication from motivated people has gone into the project.  It was a really good day and a privilege to attend!    

What more can we say.  Thanks Heather.