Our Future

The future of Off Centre's work with young people depends on continued development and growth of the service.

We have positive feedback from our partner organisations, from funders, and from young people.

"This is the only service in the borough [Hackney] offering such a holistic package of support for young men who are vulnerable and in danger of social exclusion and associated psycho-social harm." 'Sidelined' New Policy Institute 2000

"Their listening is more genuine; you don't feel you're just another person. The counsellor responds thoughtfully, genuinely and offers you more things to do. I've told other mothers that Off Centre is very good - they don't just listen, at Hackney Off Centre you are No. 1." Young mother using Off Centre's counselling service.

We are determined to reach out to those communities who don't use Off Centre enough. Our priorities include Asian and Turkish young people, refugees, young lesbians and gay men, and young people with special needs. To achieve this we are currently recruiting for more volunteer counsellors to help with these groups of young people and to reduce our waiting list.

In the summer of 2000 FT.COM Information Services adopted Off Centre as their designated charity. This has had an immediate effect - the most visible being the website you are reading - which was created by volunteers from that company. A high-profile auction was planned in conjunction with FT.COM for late November with proceeds coming to Off Centre. See auction page for details…

We are constantly looking for ways to promote young people and their talents; and for partnerships with other organisations who can help us do this. This web site is one way of publicising Off Centre's commitment to supporting young people reach their potential in practical ways, as well as through counselling and therapy.

• Adapted from the Off Centre annual review 1999