Unlocking young people’s full potential: WEST Youth Zone

WEST Youth Zone is a stateof-the-art youth centre at the heart of White City, dedicated to providing young people with a safe and exciting space, where they know they can find trusted youth workers they can rely on. Opened in April 2024, WEST offers young people across West London somewhere to go, something to do, and someone to talk to – 52 weeks a year.

Despite White City’s thriving business scene, many of its residential areas remain among the most deprived in the capital. Located strategically, WEST serves young people from 50% of London’s most disadvantaged wards, ensuring local young people have access to the same opportunities as their peers across the city.

Built as part of EdCity and with support from Hammersmith and Fulham Council, WEST is a 3 storey purpose-built space designed by young people, for young people.

A Place That Transforms Lives

As part of the national OnSide network, WEST empowers young people to build confidence, develop essential skills, and lead happier, healthier lives. Every session offers over 20 activities – from learning musical instruments and scaling their climbing wall to developing key life skills in our training kitchen. They also provide quiet study spaces with laptops to support education outside of school hours.

Their doors are open to all young people aged 8 to 19 (or up to 25 for those with additional needs), with specialist sessions like ‘Just for Girls’ and ‘Beyond’ for young people with additional needs. Membership is just £5 a year, with entry only 50p per visit – but no one is ever turned away if they cannot afford the session on the day. Their membership costs primarily exist not to raise funds, but rather to foster a feeling of ownership and belonging to the Youth Zone, which improves young person engagement. To further support those facing food insecurity, WEST serves hot meals for just £1 and has provided over 1,300 free meals during colder months through the support of their patrons.

Investing in the Next Generation

The impact of Youth Zones is clear: as demonstrated by recent OnSide research, for every £1 invested, there is a £13 social return, from improved mental and physical health to increased employability and stronger communities. Beyond the minor contributions from members’ fees, WEST’s funding relies entirely on philanthropic and corporate support.

Their business partners do more than donate, they actively engage through corporate volunteering, employee fundraising, and creating meaningful opportunities for young people. By investing in WEST, businesses can directly contribute to breaking down barriers and unlocking the potential of White City’s next generation.

Be Part of the Change

White City is a community full of promise and by supporting WEST Youth Zone you can help ensure that every young person has the confidence and skills to untap their full potential. Join WEST in helping shape a brighter future.

To find out more, contact corinna.deldebbio@westyouthzone.org

“I visited WEST Youth Zone recently and am so impressed with what they are doing for young people. I have been mentioning it to everyone who will listen!”