Salvation Army launches new Suffolk youth drop-in
published on 12 Feb 2025
A new youth drop-in run by The Salvation Army is set to open in Elmswell during the February half term expanding the church and charity’s work with young people.
The new initiative will be led by Stuart Hendry, community youth engagement worker at The Salvation Army in Stowmarket, and will be held at The Elmswell Baptist Church, 6 Ashfield Road on 19 February from 11am to 2pm.
Stuart already holds youth drop-ins in Norton and Stowmarket and carries out street-based youth work every two weeks in Stowmarket talking to young people around the town and during the lighter nights chatting to 20 or 30 young people. The drop-ins reflect The Salvation Army’s ongoing commitment to support the local community and respond to the needs of local young people.
Stuart said: “We recognise the need for young people to have a space where they can be themselves, have fun, and feel supported. The drop-in is all about providing that – a place where they can feel at home, connect with others, and know they’re not alone. Parents love the fact that their children are safe.”
The drop-in is open to young people aged between 11 and 18 and will feature a gaming and arts hub while films will also be shown. Food and drink will also be available.
Stuart said he wanted to thank the Elmswell Baptist Church for providing the venue for the drop-in.
Aside from Elmswell, The Salvation Army runs a drop in at Café on the Rec in Stowmarket from March to November every Friday after school and an after-school drop in at Norton during term time.
