The Base Youth Centre - A European first in youth development

The Base, a new and unique approach to assisting young people in disadvantaged areas welcomed its first visitors and clients to the new state-of-the-art centre in Ballyfermot today, Tuesday, 4th November 2008.

The new facility is catering for a cross section of young people in the Ballyfermot and surrounding areas. Its training, education, personal development and recreation programmes provide an inclusive service that is in demand from agencies including FAS, CERT, HSE and the Garda Siochana.

The new centre includes scientifically designed ‘chill out’ areas for young people, new media facilities, a training centre, recording studio, and multi media facilities along with a 100 seat theatre and a youth café.

Ms Sharan Kelly, Chief Executive of the Base said that thanks to the support of Government and Statutory agency funding Ballyfermot has a facility that’s regarded as one of Europe’s new and unique approaches to developing young people’s skills and characters.

“While the building is fantastic, it is only one part of the holistic approach we at The Base have in working with children and young people to reach their potential. We have a wide range of programmes, services and facilities on offer. So if you are a teen parent, we have childcare facilities and training programmes that support you in parenting, continuing your education and finding the right career. If you are recovering from substance addiction, we can work with you and other agencies such as the Drugs Task Force to help you start a new life,” Sharan explained.

“We also welcome young people with an interest in drama, music, technology or who simply want to chill out with their friends. We have unique services that can be duplicated throughout the county. We very much appreciate the support we have received from the community and our funders, who had the foresight to work with us to bring this great service to the local community,” she said. The Base provides a range of service in teen parent supports, youth health, youth work, childcare, music, Arts and new media. The Base is also part of a wider complex which includes a 25m swimming pool, gymnasium and 6 all weather football pitches.

Thanks and acknowledgements to our funders and supporters Dublin City Council, FAS, URBAN Ballyfermot, CDYSB, YPFSF, Ballyfermot Drug’s Task Force, NDP, EU and HSE. For further information, please contact Natasha McConnell, 0863940395