‘Youth cafe with a difference’ opens in Honiton

A youth-run after school cafe has opened in Honiton, Devon.

Community interest company Den Honiton (CIC) said it was a “youth cafe with a difference”.

CIC said the young people have taken responsibility for all aspects of running the space, which is open every Wednesday and Friday from 3pm-6pm BST.

The Den said the hub, on the high street, was for 11-18-year-olds and the sessions would be supervised by adult volunteers but run by young people.

The Den’s co-founder Lauren Passmore-Smart said seeing the doors open was “very exciting and rewarding”.

“We really want this to be a space run by the young people themselves, a place for them to try out their ideas and learn new skills and we look forward to welcoming everyone through the doors,” said Ms Passmore-Smart .

The Den was co-founded by Ms Passmore-Smart, Serena Sexton and Lucy Wakefield, all councillors.

CIC said the hub was supported by a number of organizations including Honiton Town Council, East Devon Dance Academy, Combe Raleigh Parish Church and Ax Vale Show.

Mrs Wakefield added: “We are extremely grateful to the local community and local businesses for all the support we have received so far.

“We are always looking for more volunteers and would appreciate any offer of support to help The Den reach as many young people as possible.”