Bank of Things donation and service hub for young people to open in Lewisham shopping centre
The Bank of Things will be a resource for young people who need to access school equipment and other essentials such as toiletries which are otherwise difficult for them to purchase due to low household incomes.
Based on the principles of a food bank, young people will be able to visit the donation hub based in Lewisham shopping centre and take home items from a menu provided. It is hoped that being able to access items such as stationery and art equipment for free will help young people to take a full and active role in their education and in society.
The Young Mayor and Young Advisors have consulted with schools and youth clubs on the project, and spent time learning from Lewisham Food Bank and Lewisham Local to understand the logistics involved in running donation hubs.
The space at Lewisham shopping centre has been provided free of charge and will be staffed by Lewisham Local staff and volunteers, with local businesses donating items. Young people across the borough will also be volunteering at the Bank of Things to support their peers and encourage others to access the resource.
The Bank of Things will also be an opportunity for young people to access advice and information about education, training, employment and careers, with Baseline and Youth Hub services being available in the same space.
Cllr Chris Barnham, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and School Performance said:
“Food banks have proven to be a vital resource for families that need it, but there are certain items a young person needs in order to succeed in school and life that may not be available. The Bank of Things will allow young people to access essential items and services that will help them to become independent citizens and support them on their journey to adulthood. I am proud of the way the Young Mayor and Young Advisors have driven this community project forward.”
Rosanna Campbell, Young Mayor of Lewisham said:
“I’m excited to be taking forward the Bank of Things with the Young Advisors, I know lots of people have been working on developing the unit in the shopping centre. It will be able to support young people in so many ways as well as providing opportunities for them to try new things and get involved”