Making the Town Centre a Safer Place to Be!

Many people using the town centre have raised concerns about crime, feelings of unsafety, and antisocial behaviour.

These issues are being actively addressed by the Safer Streets initiative, a Home Office-funded program that supports police forces in preventing, reducing, and tackling neighbourhood crime, antisocial behaviour, and violence against women and girls.

Paul Caswell, Donna Chandler and others in the team are doing a commendable job in implementing this initiative.

Here are some of the key actions being taken:

✅Engaging with town centre youth to minimise youth crime and antisocial behaviour incidents.
✅Establishing a Young and Safe Haven Centre at 7-9 Osborne Street in the town centre.
✅Developing a range of universal and targeted positive activities.
✅Facilitating both one-to-one and group work sessions.
✅Setting up a Humberside police hub in the town centre.

The Young and Safe Haven Centre, now open in the town, looks fantastic. It provides a positive alternative for young people who might otherwise linger in the town centre out of boredom.

Eventually, our young people will transition from the Young and Safe Haven Centre to the Horizon Youth Zone. 

We are being heard.

There are many dedicated individuals in our town working tirelessly to create a safer, healthier, happier, and more prosperous environment.

Change doesn’t happen overnight. It's about taking one step at a time, but these steps are now being taken.

Here at the 2025 Group, we are thrilled to witness this progress.

One of our top priorities at the 2025 Group is ensuring it's not just a vibrant and attractive town centre, but also a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. 

I would now like to go into a bit more detail on why its important why we have this space in our town centre. 

Why A Safe Space for Youth Matters

The importance of having a dedicated space for young people, especially in the town centre, cannot be overstated. The teenage years are a crucial developmental period when young individuals are exploring their identities, interests, and social connections. Without a positive and safe environment to do this, they may find themselves in less constructive scenarios, potentially leading to issues of anti-social behaviour or feeling disconnected from the community.

The Young and Safe Haven Centre

This is where facilities like The Young and Safe Haven Centre come into play. Recently opened in our town centre, this centre is not just a building; it’s a haven for our young people. It provides them with a place to socialise, learn, and engage in various activities. The centre offers a positive alternative to just 'hanging around' and potentially getting involved in unproductive or risky behaviours out of boredom or a lack of direction.

The Role of the Community

Creating a safe space for our youth also means fostering a sense of community. When young people feel like they belong and are valued, they are more likely to contribute positively to their surroundings. This sense of belonging can prevent many social issues and nurture future community leaders.

Benefits for the Town Centre

Having a youth-centred space in the town centre also brings vibrancy and diversity to our high streets. Young people bring their energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives, which are vital for a dynamic community. Moreover, engaging them in the town centre activities ensures they feel a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their town, fostering a culture of respect and care.

Looking Forward

At the 2025 Group, we believe that investing in our youth is investing in the future of our town. By providing them with the right resources, support, and opportunities, we are not just making the town centre a safer place but are also empowering a new generation to be active, responsible members of our community.

As we continue our journey to rejuvenate Grimsby's town centre, we keep our youth at the forefront, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. It's a collaborative effort that requires the support of the entire community, including local businesses, residents, and various organisations.

The photos below are the interior of the Young and Safe Haven Centre. I think it looks great.