Winchester YMCA has taken over the ancient St John's House in Winchester City Centre.
Winchester YMCA has taken over the ancient St John’s House in Winchester City Centre and plan to transform the building into a vibrant new youth facility.
Chief Executive Mike Simpson (pictured at the venue) explains; “Young people in the Winchester area have consistently said they want a 'place of our own'; a safe and fun place to meet friends in the city centre. We have talked to nearly 400 young people about what they would like. St John's House is a fantastic opportunity to meet their needs, providing quality youth work and offering support and perhaps a youth cafe. We are building partnerships with the whole community to deliver this. This building provides an exciting opportunity for Winchester to provide a top rate facility for our young people.”
Prospective Winchester MP Steve Brine visited St John’s House recently; “I am so excited about this, full marks to the YMCA for showing such tremendous leadership and vision. I am wildly envious not to be a teenager in Winchester because this promises to be a really special place.”
St John's House is a Grade 1 listed building which is owned by the St John's Winchester Charity. Its roots are believed to be in the 10th Century when the site is thought to have been used as a hospital. It has had a varied history and has been vacant since March 2008 when previous tenants Immanuel Church vacated the building.
If you or your organisation wish to find out more please visit www.ymcawinchester.org.uk or call YMCA Winchester on 01962 864234.