WHEN Devon County Council closed the youth service in Crediton a few years ago, Crediton Methodist Church saw the need for youth work and appointed a full-time youth worker who worked for more than six years around the town, both in Queen Elizabeth’s School and in church, establishing an after-school Youth Café for all young people in Crediton.

A new youth worker, Richard Martin, was appointed by Crediton Methodist Church.

Crediton Town Council was also concerned about the loss of the Youth Centre because of budget cuts by the county council.

For several years the Town Council has supported the twice-weekly after-school Youth Café sessions at the Methodist Church, which are secular and open to anyone.

The Town Council also funds detached work which takes place in public spaces and is not centred on any building.

The Congregational Church also has a youth worker, Dave Poulson.

During the pandemic, both church premises have been closed and the Youth Café cannot operate under current restrictions.

Although building-based work is not possible right now, it is possible to continue detached work. Currently, Richard and Dave have joined up to do this work together in Crediton.

With their experience in this aspect of youth work, Richard and Dave are able to make connections with young people around the town.

This can be particularly helpful for young people who are not engaged by existing opportunities.

Richard has already identified different opportunities that young people can choose to engage with in outdoor settings. Currently he is putting together a plan for young people to devise and create public artwork.

Crediton Town Council has a strong commitment for youth work. It values the detached youth work which is being carried out and welcomes the appointment of the Youth Worker at Crediton Methodist Church.

Richard can be contacted by email on: [email protected] .