Rotherham’s Titans Community Foundation (TCF) officially opened its brand new £700,000 Youth Hub on Friday 25th April.
The opening event was attended by a host of guests including Rotherham Mayor Sheila Cowen, TCF trustees, coaches, players, sponsors and volunteers. The event was also supported by Boston Castle Ward councillors, who contributed ward funding to help make the occasion a success.
The transformation of the former Bingo Hall into a modern youth hub has already impressed visitors. “Everyone who walks in just says, ‘Wow’,” said a TCF spokesperson. “Rotherham hasn’t seen an investment like this in years, and it will benefit the whole community.”
As part of the Government’s levelling-up agenda, TCF worked closely with the Youth Investment Fund to secure the funding. The new Hub will now serve as the permanent base for the Foundation, which already engages over 2,000 children annually, delivering between 2,000 and 3,000 hours of direct contact time. These figures are expected to double with the new facility.
The Foundation focuses on the following key areas:
- Youth Development and SEND support – creating inclusive sports and education programmes for children with special needs and disabilities
- Alternative Provision – supporting young people who are struggling with school attendance, particularly those experiencing anxiety
- Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programmes – keeping young people active and nourished throughout school holidays
A distinctive element of the Hub is the dedicated team behind it. TCF’s coaching staff includes professional rugby players from the Titans, who mentor young people in both sport and life – building resilience, promoting well-being, and supporting career planning.
The Hub will also host Cookies-KHAW (Kids Health and Wellbeing), a pioneering programme created by Titans player Jamie Cooke. Designed to combat childhood health and nutrition issues, it is currently being evaluated by Sheffield Hallam AWRC and the University of Sheffield for its impact. Businesses can sponsor schools to take part in four-week educational programmes that meet Ofsted requirements for community and careers links while teaching children about fitness, nutrition and healthy lifestyles.
With a full-time qualified youth worker in place, the Hub is set to become a cornerstone of youth activity in Rotherham – offering evening youth clubs, community events, and a welcoming, safe environment for young people. The venue is also available for hire.
For more information, email TCF@titans-rugby.com or call Julie Watson on 07964 340062.