The Croydon Safe Space project is programme of after-school, evening, weekend and holiday activities for socially disengaged and vulnerable young people in Croydon, providing them with a safe space to be. Working in partnership with Good Food Matters.

The programme started in 2024, and the young people here have been co-designing and developing it to meet their needs and wants. Activities include food growing, preparation and cooking, football, arts and crafts, attending events, nature walks, mentoring and guest speakers with a focus on emergency services and culinary arts.

 Alongside the activities, we ensure each young person attending receives a nutritious meal on every visit. A third of our activities are centred around cooking and on those days each young person will cook and take home food for their family.

To date, the project has supported 46 young people (at month 6)

The programme has a number of benefits to each young person from helping them to increase their confidence and self-esteem, and improve their mental and physical health. It builds life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills to practical skills such as food growing, cooking and gardening.

Sam’s story

Sam* aged 12. whose mother shared that he was being bullied at school, leading to shyness and anxiety.

At Reedham’s 180th anniversary event Sam and a group of young people joined the catering team which provided an incredible opportunity for them to highlight the skills they had developed during our sessions. The event brought a deep sense of accomplishment to both the staff and participants, as the youth prepared and served out recipes they had mastered at our sessions. As they stood behind the trays, guests at the event were highly appreciative, frequently praising their efforts, which boosted the confidence of everyone involved.

Sam attendance demonstrated remarkable growth. Initially shy and dealing with bullying at school, he displayed extraordinary courage at the event. Instead of remaining in the dining area, he walked beside his youth worker David, confidently mingling with guests and engaging in conversations with individuals far beyond his age group. His transformation has been extraordinary; he is now one of the most vibrant members of our sessions, often leading with laughter and energy.

He aspires to become a chef, as do several others, and the event provided valuable real-world experience in his chosen field. Inspired by his growth and interest, he is now exploring culinary schools, including one recommended by a member of our staff. We have seen similar transformations in other children. Youth who initially kept to themselves now feel comfortable socialising with peers and adults, building friendships and teamwork skills that will serve them for life.

*name changed to protect his identity

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To refer a young person to the programme please contact [email protected]

If you would like to support this project, please contact Jessica@ reedhamchildrenstrust.org.uk