We have launched a Crowdfunder campaign to raise £40,000 for urgent roof repairs at The Polygon Centre in Alfreton.
The Polygon Centre has been at the heart of the local community for more than 60 years. Earlier this year, Valley CiDS secured the building, ensuring it could continue providing opportunities, support and a safe space for local young people for years to come.
Since reopening, The Polygon has quickly become a thriving hub for young people once again. Thanks to funding from Alfreton Youngsters Umbrella Provision (AYUP), more than 250 young people now attend weekly Blend sessions, taking part in activities, making new friends, building confidence and accessing support in a welcoming environment.
However, the future of this important space is under threat.
The building’s roof is in a serious state of disrepair, with ongoing leaks already causing significant internal damage. Without urgent repairs, the condition of the building will continue to deteriorate, putting at risk a space that means so much to local young people.
Through our Crowdfunder campaign, we are aiming to raise £40,000 to:
- Repair and replace the roof
- Carry out remedial repairs caused by water damage
- Protect and preserve The Polygon Centre for future generations
Spaces like The Polygon are vital for young people. They provide somewhere safe to go, opportunities to develop new skills, build positive relationships and grow in confidence.
Speaking about the campaign, Valley CiDS Chief Executive Ian Tannahill said:
“The Polygon Centre holds a special place in the hearts of many people across Alfreton. Since reopening the building, we have already seen the incredible impact it is having on local young people, providing a safe and welcoming space where they can connect, grow in confidence and feel supported.
We are determined to protect the future of this important community building, but we cannot do it alone. We hope the community will come together once again to help secure The Polygon for the next generation.”
We are already seeing the impact the space is having.
Blend Youth Worker Shainie Breden said:
“The sessions at The Polygon have given young people in Alfreton something powerful and a space they can call their own.
For many young people, this building has become a place where they feel safe, valued and supported, while also gaining confidence and important life skills.”
The impact of The Polygon can already be seen in the feedback from young people attending the sessions.
One young person said:
“I like coming to Blend because it is very welcoming and helpful and the kind of place they include anybody and everybody and they never fail to make me laugh. I think Blend is the best thing ever.”
Every week, young people are using The Polygon to connect with others, try new experiences and access the support they need. We want to ensure this continues for many years to come.
The Polygon Centre holds a special place in the community, but for the young people who attend Blend, it is much more than a building. It is somewhere they feel they belong.
Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help us protect this important space and secure its future for the next generation.
If you are able to support our Crowdfunder campaign, or simply share it with others, we would be incredibly grateful. Together, we can help keep The Polygon Centre open, thriving and supporting young people for years to come.
