A NEW youth and community centre which celebrates the diverse range of communities in Worcester has opened its doors.
Worcester’s MP Robin Walker was among a selection of local councillors and community leaders who gathered toto celebrate the opening of Worcester Muslim Welfare Association’s new youth and community centre.
The newly refurbished Unity House on Stanley Road will be open to all communities and has a range of upgraded facilities, including a fully equipped games room, a children’s art and craft room, a social room for over 50s, and an outdoor community space complete with pocket gardens for fruit and vegetable growing.
Mr Walker was joined by Mayor of Worcester Coun Steve Mackay and Deputy Mayor Coun Jabba Riaz, as well as a cross-party selection of local councillors and religious leaders from across the city.
County council leader Coun Simon Geraghty, Deputy Leader of Worcester City Council Marc Bayliss and Cathedral Ward Councillor Allah Ditta as well as local activist Nida Hassan were also on hand for the pre-opening event on Sunday.
Guests heard about the Muslim Welfare Association’s upcoming plans and priorities for the centre which include projects to tackle anti-social behaviour and bullying, to share job and training opportunities for young people, and to promote British values alongside a pride in the cultural heritage of Worcester’s diverse communities.
Speaking to the Observer, Coun Ditta said: “It’s a much-needed facility for youngsters and the local community.
“I’m hoping this will help take our youngster off the streets, it’s an issue local residents have raised as well as younger people who have told us they have nowhere to go.”
Speaking after the opening, Mr Walker said: “It was a great example of Worcester’s diverse communities coming together in celebration of our shared values.
“I have always believed that part of what makes our sense of community in the Faithful City so strong is the way in which those of many faiths and none regularly join in a shared appreciation of what we all have in common, and on occasions like this I am always reminded of those bonds.”
“It is hugely to the benefit of our city that facilities such as Unity House continue to thrive and grow, and I look forward to seeing more of the centre and the many projects taking place there.
