Aston 614 tackles youth isolation with summer activities

published on 25 Jul 2025

Aston is buzzing with energy as The Salvation Army’s youth centre, Aston 614 in Birmingham kicks off its exciting summer scheme, offering a vibrant month of free activities for local children and young people.  

From pizza making to digital art, sports to graffiti, the programme is designed to keep young minds engaged, creative, and connected during the summer holidays. 

The goal is to provide a safe and inspiring space for young people to thrive during the school break, especially in a time when many families face growing challenges around food poverty and children social isolation outside of term time. 

The scheme runs for four weeks from 21 July to mid August at the Aston 614 youth hub and promises something for everyone: beat-making, 3D modelling, gaming, in-door sport health and physical activities, interactive workshops, and more. 

Creative summer at Aston 614 Salvation Army Youth Centre

In addition to the packed schedule of activities, the programme includes hot meals and refreshments to ensure every young person is fuelled and ready to participate, helping to bridge the gap left by the absence of free school meals during the holidays. 

“It’s more than just keeping young people busy; it’s about giving them experiences that spark creativity and build confidence. We want every young person who walks through our doors to feel seen, safe, and supported.”
Daniel Squires, Youth Worker at The Salvation Army Birmingham Aston Corps

The Aston 614 summer scheme is part of The Salvation Army’s wider commitment to tackling youth isolation and holiday hunger, with similar programmes running across the West Midlands and beyond. Families in Aston can still sign up by contacting the centre directly via social media, or in person. 

“We know that the school holidays can be tough for many families: financially, emotionally, and practically. Our summer scheme is here to lighten that load and offer something fun and engaging for young people. It’s been incredible to see their enthusiasm already, and we’re just getting started!”
Corinne Seabridge, Divisional Youth Officer

Aston 614 has served young people and their families in the community since 2006. It is a Salvation Army Youth Centre based in Aston, and runs a range of activities, programmes and services, including after-school drop-ins, mentoring, sports, and Arts Award qualifications in music production, comic book creation, animation and more! 

For updates and highlights from the summer scheme, follow @Aston_614 on Instagram and Facebook.