Campaign launched to furnish the new Foxton Centre in Avenham ahead of May opening

Work on the new Foxton base in Avenham which will act as a young people’s and community centre Pic: Foxton

An extra £65,000 needs to be found to fit-out the new youth and community centre for Avenham.

The Foxton is appealing for help ahead of its new centre opening in May.

Construction of the building is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Youth Investment Fund but the charity – which was founded in Avenham in 1969 – says equipment and internal fittings will cost tens of thousands of pounds.

The government funding does not include any funding for the internal fit-out of the building.

Chief executive of The Foxton, Jeff Marsh, said: “We welcome the funding from the DCMS, which will create a modern, fit-for-purpose centre that is life changing for young people. However, we are only halfway there and need the kind support of local businesses and people to help furnish the centre, from creating a dance room to blinds for the windows.

“We need equipment and furniture to create a space that is both inspiring and functional, and that fulfils the important needs of today’s local young people, for generations to come.

“Every donation we receive, whether it be through monetary donations or the donation of in-kind services or products, will make a permanent impact on the lives of local young people.”

Jeff and Cath outside the new Foxton Centre in Avenham Pic: Foxton

The new building was co-designed by the charity’s Youth Forum and 18-year-old Rhiannon was one of those involved. She’s been using The Foxton since she was eight.

She said: “The Youth Forum, along with young people that use the centre, were involved from the beginning.”

“Designing the new centre, it was always a case of ‘what do young people want’ rather than ‘what do we think young people want’.

“It gives local young people the ambition to do more and change more in the world, it sends the message that they are important and that they can achieve more than maybe they thought they could.”

Rhiannon is a youth ambassador for The Foxton Pic: Foxton

What’s needed?

Kitchen – £12,000
Main hall – £15,000
Outside space and balcony – £6,600
Wellbeing room – £5,700
Training room – £3,500
Meeting room and dance studio – £8,000
Gaming room – £5,500
Offices – £8,500

A full breakdown of items per room can be found on The Foxton’s website.

How to help

Financial donations can be made via Justgiving, or call 01772289074 or email furnishfoxton@thefoxton.org

In-kind donations can also be made, by those who are able to donate items or their in-kind time to fit items or furnishings. Email furnishfoxton@thefoxton.org if you’re able to help.

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