Gabalfa Youth and Community Centre, Cardiff Youth Service
Finalist
Gabalfa Youth and Community Centre, working closely with local businesses, schools and third sector community partners, has transformed youth work provision in north Cardiff.
Innovative spaces such as a music studio, a digital suite and a wellbeing garden have been created alongside youth‑led enterprise opportunities including the ‘Unify Gabalfa Interchange’ project, which reimagined and redesigned a local underpass, turning it into a safe and vibrant space that fosters community pride.
The Centre’s partnership‑driven approach has not only improved facilities, but strengthened community pride, inclusion and long‑term sustainability.
Judges felt this project demonstrated how intentional partnership planning can deliver meaningful, lasting impact for young people and communities alike.
James Healan Principal Youth Officer has reflected:
Gabalfa Youth Centre has placed itself at the heart of the community, enabling it to become a safe space for young people. Central to our approach is working collaboratively. This has provided young people with opportunities to develop skills and abilities that have improved their understanding of the world of work.