The Bishops Waltham Youth Club was originally established in 1950 as a charity trust organisation which has operated continually from that time onwards, supporting the development of young people in Bishops Waltham and the surrounding district.
 
In July 2024, the dilapidated prefabricated timber framed Youth Club building and associated land in Malt Lane, along with 3 neighbouring properties, were sold for a redevelopment project opposite the Palace ruins in Bishops Waltham. The Youth Hall sale was conditional in that the developer would build a new custom designed youth hall on the same site within the new ‘Palace Quarters’ residential complex.
 
The new hall will be owned by Bishops Waltham Youth Trust on a 999-year lease which was completed in July this year and is due to open in September offering a safe space and program for young people aged 11-17 years
 
Apart from providing the new home for the youth club, the facilities will also be available to the broader community and charity organisations within the district for hire and for community support events. Bishops Waltham Youth Club equipment, activities and youth workers are funded entirely by fundraising events, grant applications and hall facility hire. Income has been significantly reduced since the old hall was closed.
 
The JTCT has supported the project by funding the purchase of an audio / video system. with projector. This additional resource for the youth club will enable the delivery of engaging, visually supported sessions that enhance learning, inclusion, and participation for young people. It will allow the club to run workshops, training, film nights, guest presentations, and digital skills activities in a way that is accessible and appealing to all. Most importantly, the audio / video system will also be available for wider community use, supporting local groups, volunteers, and partner organisations who rely on visual presentations for meetings, training, and community events.

The JTCT is delighted that this shared resource will strengthen local engagement, broaden the range of activities the club can offer, and ensure that the equipment benefits the whole parish, not just the youth club.

To find out more please visit: bishopswalthamyouthclub.co.uk