The Prince’s Trust Doug Barrowman Centre in Manchester officially opened today, with Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham and Hits Radio Breakfast host Fleur East attending for the big moment.
The new hub is located at Beehive Mill in Ancoats, which is the former home of iconic nightclub Sankeys, and has been redeveloped by Urban Splash.
It will build on The Trust’s existing presence in Greater Manchester and will significantly increase support for young people in the area – connecting them with even more opportunities to get into work, education and training.
Plans for the Centre were drawn up in collaboration with a young person-led design group to ensure the creation of a vibrant, inspirational and innovative space where young people can connect and thrive.
The project was supported by businessman and long-time supporter of The Trust Doug Barrowman, who donated £2 million through The Barrowman Foundation.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, who attended on the day, said:
To give every young person in Greater Manchester the chance to get ahead in life, employment opportunities and skills training have to be at the core of what we do. Organisations like The Prince’s Trust, who have a track record of empowering young people to transform their lives, help enormously. This new Centre is a really positive step for the region and I can’t wait to see the outcomes it brings.”
The launch welcomed Young Ambassadors to take supporters on tours of the new space, alongside hosting a number of Trust-supported young people who have launched their own business with the help of the Enterprise programm.
Clare Crabb, Regional Director for the North of England at The Prince’s Trust, said:
“We believe that every young person should have the chance to succeed, and this flagship hub will give even more young people across Greater Manchester the opportunity to make the most of their talents and take the next steps in their education or career.”
