New youth hub opens at Roehampton to support play, creativity, and fun for young people

Following the launch of Roehampton Family Hub in October 2024, the new youth and play provision has been developed to complement existing local services and provide a broader range of opportunities for young residents.

The hub aims to enhance wellbeing, foster inclusion, build confidence and support personal growth in line with the priorities of the Youth Strategy. Through accessible skill-building activities in a nurturing and safe environment, young people can also access guidance and support from trained youth workers around their emotional wellbeing, personal development and future aspirations.

Designed in collaboration with children and young people who use the hub, alongside staff teams and local community partners, the space, named ‘Next Gen’ by the young people themselves, offers inclusive provision for those aged 5 to 25, including young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Its unique offer ensures there is something for everyone, from play and creative activities for younger children, to distraction-free study spaces for Year 10-13 and opportunities for aspiring musicians to learn and perform, supporting the borough’s wider cultural ambitions as part of London Borough of Culture.

A refurbished outdoor area also provides a safe space for children and young people to play, socialise and enjoy activities such as arts and crafts, basketball and table tennis, alongside an outdoor ‘chill and chat’ zone featuring a calming sensory garden.

The launch event on 19 February welcomed the Youth Mayor, Deputy Mayor and local councillors, with speeches delivered by the young mayoral team.

Those attending saw first-hand the wide range of play focused opportunities on offer, including SEN sessions, play rangers, use of the outdoor space and creative activities tailored to younger children.

The new hub forms part of Wandsworth’s wider Year of Play commitment and the council’s ambition to make the borough the best place for children to grow up, ensuring every child has access to safe spaces, enriching activities and supportive communities.

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children, said: “This fantastic new space reflects our commitment to making Wandsworth the best place for children to grow up.

“It was shaped by our young people themselves and is all about play, creativity and inclusion.

“As part of our Year of Play, we are proud to invest in spaces like ‘Next Gen’, where every child and young person feels welcome, supported and has a space to play.”

Wandsworth Council will continue working with local families, schools and community partners to ensure ‘Next Gen’ delivers lasting opportunities for Roehampton’s young people.

Find out more about what’s on at the hub, including opening times here: New Youth Hub at Roehampton Family Hub.