CROYDON YOUTH ZONE

Croydon Youth Zone is a new multi million-pound Youth Centre which has just opened in Whitehorse Road on the site of the previous Croydon Boys Club/ Whitehorse Youth Centre. 

David Mellis joined OnSide in April 2017 with over 15 years’ experience with charities transforming the lives of young people. After six years at The Prince’s Trust and 10 years redeveloping The Salmon Youth Centre in London, David has advised on millions of pounds of investment in young people. Trained as an engineer with a BEng from Warwick University and a MSc from Cranfield, he started his career in overseas development in Africa. He lives in south London and has two secondary age boys. David will be supporting private sector involvement in the new youth zones planned for London, starting with Croydon. 

OnSide Youth Zones are designed to give young people aged 8 to 19, or up to 25 for those with a disability, somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to – occupying their bodies and minds with engaging activities, helping them develop new skills and socialise in a safe, positive and accessible environment.

More than 38,000 members make around 500,000 visits to OnSide Youth Zones every year, attracting young people from the most disadvantaged communities.