Organisers hope it could pave the way for a permanent youth-led space in the heart of the town. Artsite Youth will begin on Saturday at Swindon Hub on The Parade. It will run for eight weeks, offering free workshops and social space for young people aged 12 to 18.
The initiative is run by local arts charity Artsite and funded by the Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation.
Activities will include zine-making, music workshops, mural design, street theatre, banner-making and other creative sessions. Young people will also be invited to help shape the future direction of the project.
The long-term ambition is to establish a dedicated town centre venue created by young people, for young people.
Casey Hillier, who is leading the project, said:
“We want this to be an inspiring, welcoming and inclusive space and project for local young people. We know from things young people have already told us during previous projects that there simply aren’t enough spaces or positive things for them to do in the town, and we really want to help change that.”
Sessions will take place every Saturday afternoon throughout June and July. Young people can drop in to join activities, meet others or spend time in what organisers describe as a safe and supportive environment.
The launch comes amid growing national concerns about opportunities for young people outside school and work.
Research commissioned by the Roundhouse found that 91% of young adults in the South West believe they have fewer opportunities than previous generations to connect, build confidence and develop skills.
In Swindon, the decline of traditional youth clubs over the past two decades and pressure on local authority budgets have reduced the number of dedicated youth services. Many young people now rely on commercial venues or online platforms for social interaction.
Artsite points to the town centre’s HOPE mural, created during the Covid pandemic, as an example of what can be achieved when young people are given ownership of creative projects and public spaces.
Swindon town centre has faced ongoing debate about regeneration and attracting more visitors. Organisers believe that a youth-focused space could play a role in bringing new activity into the area.
The final two sessions in July will be shaped directly by participants, giving them influence over how the project develops.
Whether the scheme becomes permanent is not yet known. However, organisers say it reflects calls for more spaces where young people in Swindon can belong, create and be heard.
The project runs from 1pm to 5pm on Saturdays from 6th June until 25th July at Swindon Hub on The Parade.
Organisers are seeking donations of old magazines for zine-making and comfortable seating such as bean bags and large cushions.
A crowdfunding campaign is underway to raise £5,000 to repair the lift at Swindon Hub and improve accessibility.
Young people can follow the project on Instagram for updates and information.
