Disused building transformed into hub for young care leavers to ‘feel at home’

A disused building has been transformed into a brand new social hub for all young people in the borough who have experienced life in care to “feel at home”.

Hammersmith and Fulham council has opened The Care Leavers’ Hub in Sulgrave Gardens,  Shepherds Bush.

The hub is located in a previously disused tenants and residents’ association meeting space that has been transformed by young people in the borough who have experienced time in care. 

It includes a new kitchen, with free-to-use laundry facilities, a group workspace, a meeting room, an art room, and a communal lounge. The youngsters painted every wall in the hub, including the art room’s mural.

Councillor Alex Sanderson, cabinet member for children and education said: “It’s great to have our hub for care-experienced young people officially open.

“It’s been a project that wouldn’t have been possible without their passion and input. It’s really exciting to see their hard work come to life.” 

“The hub is their front room, it’s a place for them to meet each other, their friends and social workers, and most importantly, to relax and feel at home.”

It is also the new permanent meeting spot for Hamersmith and Fulham’s children in care council and social workers will also be able to use the hub to host talks and workshops with key organisations. 

Pictured top: The care leavers hub art room which was painted by the young people who will be able to use the new social space (Picture: Hammersmith and Fulham council)