It has been nearly a year since the Young Adult Centre (YAC) in Southall reopened after a multi-million-pound refurbishment. And, in that time, the centre has seen a boost in young people using it and has won a major design award.
The YAC, in Park View Road, reopened in January 2025 after a £2.4 million investment by Ealing Council. Young people in the area played a central role in shaping the refurbishment. They contributed ideas on layout, equipment and activities throughout the design process. The result is a modern and energy efficient centre featuring a gym, an IT and creative studio, a mezzanine level, a training kitchen and a fully accessible lift.
While the building work was taking place, the service temporarily moved to Dormers Hub in Southall in 2024 and, since the new YAC reopened, more young people than ever have been benefitting from its excellent facilities.
The busiest it’s been in years
Total visits in 2025 were 28% higher than in 2023, before the refurbishment, and 11% higher than last year, when the service was based at Dormers Hub. Many young people are now coming in to take part in sport, music, gaming and creative activities, as well as using the space to study, relax or meet friends.
Kingsley Hazel, 19, has been part of the YAC community since he was 15. He now returns as a volunteer to help younger members, who are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh award, with their cooking skills. This runs alongside his apprenticeship as a chef at the Bluebird restaurant in Chelsea.
“I have been coming here for around 4 or 5 years,” he said. “The staff have always been very helpful. They try hard to support the kids. The kitchen is much bigger now and it is perfect for teaching cooking. I have recently started coming back to help the young people with their Duke of Edinburgh. It helps me build my experience and I want to give my time back.”
He added: “It is lovely here and very homely. Everyone is supportive. The young people get on well with the staff and there is good guidance here.”
Award success
The building is also more energy efficient now, and more accessible for users. In October 2025, the YAC received the Full Design Award at the Ealing Civic Society Awards. This is the society’s highest honour. Judges praised the improvements to accessibility and energy performance. They also praised the way young people were involved in shaping the design. Visitors can see the award, in all its glory, in the YAC reception area.
‘Proof investing in young people works’
Jibril, who goes to the YAC twice a week, said:. “I like the PlayStation and I do some cooking and football too.There is a lot to do here, and the staff are very nice.”
Councillor Josh Blacker, the council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, said: “These numbers speak for themselves. The YAC is busier, brighter and more welcoming than ever. This is proof that investing in young people works. The centre offers a safe place to learn, build confidence and make friends – and it is fantastic to see so many young people choosing to spend their time here.”
For more information about opening times, activities, and more, go to the Young Ealing website.
