A YOUTH charity has become a ?vital? lifeline to Tavistock, since it was established ten years ago. In 1997, Young Devon felt their presence was needed in the town, and opened up an advice centre for young people in the area ? Youthwize. Since then the charity has helped a vast number of local teens with a range of different problems and issues. Every week an average of 50 to 60 young people visit the ?drop-in? centre, which also receives numerous enquiries from parents and other young people via telephone and email. More than 500 youths are currently on the centre?s files. Kayleigh Thorn is just one of the many youths helped by the charity. At 13-years old, she was directed to Youthwize by social services. Kayleigh, now 17, said: ?After a difficult childhood I was left with nowhere to go. When social services directed me to Youthwize I didn?t know much about them but they were amazing. They helped me get into council housing and helped me to deal with my grief. ?One of the best things they did was introduce me to Lily. Lily has been my counsellor for nearly four years and has helped me to move forwards ? to places I never really thought I would reach. Steve Shill has been the Young Carers development worker at Tavistock for eight years. He said: ?Although Tavistock is a great place to live, it has problems just like anywhere else. ?Kayleigh demonstrates what we try to do with every young person that calls for help. She has gone from strength to strength in the four years we have spent with her and we are all very proud of the person she has become.? The Tavistock advice centre is open Mondays, from 1pm to 5pm, Wednesdays, from 1pm to 8pm, and Fridays, from 1pm to 4pm. The centre can also be contacted on 01822 612555.
