Supporting SPACE Youth Services
On 16th April, I was proud to take part in a Row-a-thon at Lowman Green to raise funds for Tiverton Youth Centre, run by SPACE – a fantastic organisation providing vital support services for young people in our community.
The challenge? Row 100km – the equivalent distance from Tiverton all the way to outer space. And thery smashed it.
I joined an incredible team of rowers including five-time Olympian Chris Maddocks, local police officers and fellow councillors – but let me be clear: my contribution was minor compared to some! Together, everyone helped the event exceed its target, with one young person alone rowing an impressive 21km – a half marathon on the rowing machine!
Between sponsorship and the accompanying bake sale, the event raised £350 towards the youth centre’s Activities Programme, which will give young people affordable access to fun trips and activities during the school holidays and beyond.
Why this matters
SPACE provides essential support for young people across Tiverton, offering a safe environment where they can connect, access help, and build confidence. Services like these make a real difference – particularly for young people who may be struggling or who simply need somewhere to belong.
I’ve seen first-hand the impact of their work. I’ve met with the SPACE team to understand the challenges facing young people locally, and I’ve attended a Devon Youth Council meeting for councillors hosted on site in Tiverton. Hearing directly from young people about what matters to them has reinforced my belief that investing in youth services isn’t optional – it’s essential.
Investing in young people
As your county councillor, I’m committed to backing our young people not just with words, but with action. That’s why I’ve used part of my locality budget to fund the refurbishment of a chill-out room at the Tiverton youth centre – a dedicated space where young people can relax, decompress and feel at home.
Youth services across the country have faced years of cuts, and too often young people are overlooked when budgets are tight. I believe we need to do better. Investing in our young people today means stronger, healthier communities tomorrow.
A huge well done to the whole SPACE team for organising such a fantastic event, and to everyone who took part, donated, or cheered the rowers on. It was a privilege to be involved in a very small way.
If you’d like to support Tiverton Youth Centre’s Activities Programme, donations can still be made at justgiving.com/campaign/rowtospace.