Projects

Eastmoors Youth Centre

Completed: 2025
Location: Cardiff
Region: Wales
Other local partners: Morgan Sindall

About the project

Eastmoors Youth Centre, based in Cardiff, offers a wide range of youth clubs and development opportunities. The centre supports young people through initiatives such as digital skills training, creative workshops, youth support services, and inclusive social spaces.es.

The project

The project, funded by Morgan Sindall, supported the transformation of the garage recording studio to create a safe and inspiring space for creativity. Works included: 

    • Purpose-built recording booth and mixing booth
    • Chill-out seating area
    • Soundproofing with a new false wall
    • New internal doors and custom storage
    • Full interior fit-out with timber framework and plaster boarding
    • Feature mural by Fresh Creative.

Impact

  • This modern space now gives young people a lasting creative outlet to explore music and media. The transformation also builds community pride, shows local investment, and creates opportunities for collaboration with local artists and volunteers. 
  • 5 volunteers from the local community also helped out during the project with various jobs 

Young people

  • 19 young people took part in the VIY experience at Eastmoors Youth Centre, referred by Willows High School and a few independent referrals from the local area
  • 16% NEET, 84% at risk, inc. those on Free School Meals, in Alternative Education/Excluded/ Poor Attendance and ESOL learners
  • 17 young people gained at least one accreditation:
    • 1 x Conduct at Work, 
    • 13 x Painting & Decorating
    • 4 x Carpentry
  • VIY continues to work with and track young people’s progression over a period of 12 months, so we can report back on their positive next steps in due course

Young learner: “Enjoyed every aspect of it, cutting wood, fitting wood, learning life skills.”

Elliot’s Story 

Elliot joined during the first week of our project at Eastmoors Youth Centre in Cardiff.  He had previously become disengaged with education after being excluded from school and wasn’t sure if this opportunity would be for him. However, after just 3 days he achieved his City & Guilds Intro to Carpentry and Joinery. 

He then chose to volunteer his own time to return for the entire second and third week, showing real dedication and passion. After those first few days, Elliot told the team he felt so inspired by our mentors that he now wants to pursue a career in Carpentry. He has since  earned his CSCS card, with help from VIY Progression team, and is due to start work experience with Morgan Sindall. 

“I’m really thankful to VIY and Morgan Sindall for all the hard work you have done, at the centre and behind the scenes. Together we are all building a professional, comfortable and inspiring space for young people in Splott. It’s not often I get to work with so many partners and different agencies on a project and although nothing is ever plain sailing, I think you have all been amazing.” Darryl Payne, Senior Youth Support Worker, Eastmoors Youth Centre t