A "LONG-overdue" Bromsgrove Youth and Community Hub will be launched to offer help and support to young people across the district.

The scheme will be located in the basement of Bromsgrove Baptist Church on New Road, thanks to £65,000 refurbishment of the area.

It came about after a consultation with young people from North Bromsgrove High School who said they would like somewhere where they could attend and feel like they belonged to.

Sarah Mulhall said: "We are all so excited to be a part of this new project, this is a great opportunity for the young people of Bromsgrove, so please come in to The Hub and find out more."

Rev Paul Lewis added: "A place like this for the young people of Bromsgrove is long overdue and it's great that it is finally happening after so much planning and hard work."

The Hub will give the young people of Bromsgrove a base were they can speak to professionals on a range of topics including relationship advice, mental health support, self-esteem and sexual health. It will also provide parenting sessions.

They will be able to access mentoring and counselling and have a space where they can go with their friends or if they need support.

The hub will also benefit the wider Bromsgrove community by tackling concerns of anti-social behaviour and a place where they can meet professionals and gain support themselves.

Funding has been provided by Bromsgrove District Council, Worcestershire County Council, the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion, Community Safety Partnership, YMCA, Bromsgrove Baptist Church, and other local supporters.

The hub launches to professionals between 2pm and 4pm on July 18 and young people can check out the site for the first time from 6pm to 8pm on that day.

A project manager is already in place and Sarah now wants to hear from anyone who would like to help. Email sarah.mulhall@YMCAWorcestershire.org.uk.