UPDATE: The New Saints FC Foundation urgently requests a £10,000 contribution from the local council to sustain operations at The Centre Spot, a vital community hub in Oak Street. This plea comes as the foundation grapples with rising utility costs and ongoing repairs, impacting their ability to serve the community effectively.
In a letter sent to the town council, the foundation confirmed they have now fully taken over the administration of The Centre Spot, previously managed by Shropshire Council. The facility supports youth and community wellbeing, and currently hosts several programs, including Obertelli Play Therapy and SoundLives Youth Music, which utilizes the building’s music studio.
Gill Jones, manager and trustee of the foundation, stated, “We are grateful for the town council’s commitment to necessary roof repairs that began on November 1. However, until these repairs are complete—expected by mid to late February—our ability to generate revenue through room rentals is severely restricted.”
The foundation, which has already launched community lunches and a youth café, is facing an urgent financial challenge. Current estimates suggest that basic monthly utility costs for the building are between £3,500 and £4,000, with limited revenue streams available until repairs are finalized.
Jones elaborated on the foundation’s predicament: “OsNosh, which prepares meals from surplus food, has indicated they can only contribute to utility costs until the end of December. We are also collaborating with St John Ambulance to recover utility expenses associated with their use of the facility.”
The foundation has proposed that the council’s support could help them bridge a critical financial gap until further funding sources are secured. “We appreciate this is a massive ask partway through the council’s financial year,” Jones added. “However, the delayed roof repair contract and the financial uncertainties of a key partner have significantly impacted our operations.”
In efforts to enhance community engagement, the foundation is also pursuing new initiatives, including peer support groups, training programs, and cookery workshops. “We’ve expanded our opening hours for young people, especially with our Tuesday evening youth café, which offers a safe environment for homework, basic meals, and social interaction,” said Jones.
Despite the challenges, attendance at the youth café is growing weekly. However, the foundation faces a revenue “hump” that threatens its sustainability. They have several funding applications in process and are hopeful for positive outcomes.
The local council is set to consider the foundation’s funding request on December 10, 2023. “We urge town councillors to assess what support could help us overcome this immediate financial hurdle,” Jones concluded.
As the foundation strives to stabilize its operations and expand community services, the urgency of the situation highlights the critical role The Centre Spot plays in the wellbeing of local youth and residents. Community members are encouraged to support this initiative, as the foundation works diligently to secure its future.
