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ABOUT US
The Waterside Centre is a bright and welcoming space in the heart of Newbury, funded and run by the local charity Berkshire Youth. Every day, it opens its doors to young people aged 8 to 18 (or 25 for those with SEND), giving them a safe place to grow, have fun and discover what they can achieve. Through youth clubs, holiday activities, outdoor adventures and creative sessions, young people have the opportunity to learn new skills, challenge themselves, build confidence and discover what they are capable of in a supportive environment.
Waterside is also a place for the wider community. During the day and at weekends the centre hosts a range of groups, classes and activities that bring people together, while our riverside café offers a relaxing space to meet, enjoy great coffee and watch the wildlife by the water. Everyone is welcome.
Every visit, booking and shared moment helps Berkshire Youth continue its mission to support and empower young people across West Berkshire, creating real and lasting impact where it matters most.
OUR HISTORY
Built in the 1960s, the Waterside Centre grew from a national effort to give young people more opportunities beyond school a place to feel welcome, supported and inspired. Following the Albemarle Committee’s report, new youth centres were created across the country, and Newbury became one of the chosen communities.
Since opening, the Waterside Centre has been part of the lives of generations. People still share memories of meeting their partners here, taking part in outdoor adventures, enjoying music nights, or joining exchanges with Newbury’s twin towns. Camping trips, climbing, canoeing and live music all helped create moments that stayed with them.
Berkshire Youth took over the running of the Waterside Centre in 2021. Following a major fundraising effort that raised over £1.4 million, the charity was able to secure the building and transform it from a dilapidated, run down site into the vibrant, modern community facility you see today. The refurbishment created a welcoming space designed to support young people and bring the wider community together.
More than a building, the Waterside has always been a place to belong, a place to laugh, learn, try new things and grow. For decades, it has stood at the heart of Newbury as a symbol of community, opportunity and youth.
OUR FUTURE
The Waterside Centre is our vision for a vibrant community space where young people can feel safe, supported and inspired.
Designed with young people at its heart, the centre brings together a diverse community through a wide range of exciting activities, projects and opportunities to get involved. It is a place where young people can connect with others, try new things, build confidence and develop skills that will support them throughout their lives.
Through youth led activities, supportive youth work and welcoming social spaces, the centre empowers young people to take part in positive experiences that broaden horizons and encourage personal growth. In an environment where they feel valued and supported, young people are able to overcome challenges, discover their potential and thrive.
The Waterside Centre is more than just a building. It is a place of opportunity, belonging and community, where young people can shape their futures and feel part of something positive.
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