Youth club reopens after £1.5m transformation

A youth club has been "future-proofed for generations to come" thanks to a £1.5m transformation.

Sheffield's Double Six club received cash from the Youth Investment Fund to upgrade its building and create new outdoor sports facilities.

Organisers at the club, based at a former church on Scarsdale Road in Woodseats, said they had seen a 50% rise in memberships since it reopened.

Club leader Richard Hay, 55, who attended as a young boy, said: "As an old church the building was very cold and our utility bills were through the roof. If we hadn't got the money, I think in 10 years' time the building would have been condemned."

The club, which takes its name from the year it launched in 1966, has been insulated to "within an inch of its life", Hay said, while new solar panels on the roof have helped reduce energy bills.

The main hall has been refurbished with modern fittings and outside is a multi-use games area (MUGA) for football, basketball and badminton.

Other changes include refurbished and restored breakout rooms, meaning young people can receive one-to-one or group support with their mental health and attend classes about sexual health and work.

A new kitchen will also be used for cooking and baking classes.

An old stained-glass window which was a feature of the Methodist church has been restored and features in the relaunched club.

While the renovation work was carried out, the group relocated for 18 months to the Woodseats Venture Scout Hut on Helmton Road.

Although the official launch takes place on Friday, members have been able to enjoy some of the new facilities since January and according to Hay "170 new members" have joined.

Despite the modernisation there is still a concerted effort to ensure the club is inclusive and affordable for all.

"I remember when I came here 40-odd years ago we paid 20 pence per session and they only pay a pound now so that's important. This should be for everyone," said Hay.

Billy, 15, has attended since 2019 and admitted the old hall was "freezing cold" and "felt a bit run down".

"It was always so welcoming though," he said.

"To see how it's changed feels amazing. They've kept some of the lovely features. It looks beautiful but with a modern twist."

Louise Haigh, MP for Sheffield Heeley, said: "I know how hard all the young people and volunteers have worked to ensure that this £1.5m transformation of Double Six youth club is successful, and from the response from young people who have returned so far, it has been a huge success.

"I know how well valued Double Six and their youth work is, and I have seen first-hand the lasting impact they have on young people who they support."

Civil Society Minister Stephanie Peacock said: "This space is exactly what the government's National Youth Strategy is all about - giving young people the opportunities, support and trusted adults they need to thrive.

"By investing in facilities like this and backing youth workers and volunteers, we're helping ensure that every young person has the chance to reach their potential, no matter their background."

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