A NEW Chief Executive Officer has taken up his role at the helm of the Basement Project which is widening the support it offers to young people across Worcestershire.
Jerry Robinson was appointed CEO after the retirement last year of Jackie Hooper who was also one of the founding members of the charity in 1998.
She helped steer The Basement Project through the first 18 months of the pandemic before her departure in October.
The Basement helps young people under 25 who are in crisis, homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The charity helps resolve many issues, including retaining or finding accommodation, finances, relationships, mental health, wellbeing and employability.
The three main areas of delivery are floating support where team members work with the young people in their homes or the local community, a drop-in service and a contact centre at the charity’s Hanover Street base.
An ever-growing foodbank is also supporting young people and families facing financial hardship.
Under Jerry’s leadership and with the generous support of the local community and funders, the Basement is rapidly evolving the drop-in service, contact centre and community space to increase capacity. More young people can now access important services remotely or directly and benefit from social interaction in a safe environment.
More volunteers and funding from Worcestershire Children First, district councils and partner funders, will also see more expansion of the floating support, preventative work and crisis management.
The outreach programme already has a presence in the six districts of Worcestershire and that will be developed with particular focus on Evesham, Worcester City and Malvern.
Having previously worked for the Youth Hostel Association (England and Wales), The Mead Educational Trust in Leicestershire, and Coventry University Student’s Union, Jerry is well-placed to help young people.
He said he was delighted with his new role.
“I am blessed with an experienced and expert team who have a track record of delivering programs and partnerships and together we will continue to help change young lives for the better and for the long term.”
Visit bromsgrovebasementproject.org.uk or call 01527 832993 for more information on The Basement Project, to make donations or to volunteer.
