Could the end be in sight for both the Playgroup and the Youth Club? Over the years many young people in Chipperfield have enjoyed evening meetings and activities in the Youth Club building. Many parents of young children have been able to take advantage of the excellent Playgroup run there by Sue Reynolds and her staff on three mornings a week during term time.
Times change. There are other clubs and activities for young children in the village. St. Paul’s Church provides a youth club in the Parish Room on Monday evenings with the services of a paid Youth Worker. The village Brownie Pack has a waiting list as does the after school club. Dancing classes have dozens of young pupils and the junior membership of the Tennis Club is flourishing with regular coaching provided. There are eight youth football teams supported by coaching and taking part in matches and competitions. And of course Blackwells has a Youth Room with a pool table.
Do we need the Youth Club? Its past success has always relied on support from parents, many of whom volunteered on a rota basis to help on club nights. This support has dropped away and the club has struggled on with help from a dedicated few who are now finding it difficult to continue.
The club premises are on land leased from Dacorum Borough Council and there are 30 years to run on the lease. Many communities would give their eye teeth for a club building. Chipperfield has one – somewhat old-fashioned and it certainly needs refurbishment to make it more attractive as a meeting place.
Do we need the premises? Is it worth spending money on? Are there any parents with young families who will actively support the Youth Club? Could other organisations in the village use the premises? Are any adults or parents in the village prepared to offer our young people help and support with other activities, coaching, training or interests which could take place on the premises?
This really is a case of “Use It or Lose It”. Chipperfield News would be pleased to hear from anyone in the village with views on the future of the Youth Club and the fate of the premises. Send your comments by e-mail to editors@chipperfield.org.uk or post them in the box at The Post Office Stores or The Two Brewers.