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For nearly three decades, the Senghenydd Youth Drop In Centre (SYDIC) has been providing vital support to youngsters, their families, and the wider community.

Now, that work has been given a boost thanks to a grant of £38,750.

The funding comes from Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd, through her Community Fund – which is partially funded using money recovered from the proceeds of crime.

Community groups can apply to the fund for grants ranging from £1,000 to £50,000 to support local initiatives.

SYDIC will use its share of the money to continue offering weekly drop-in sessions for young people in the Aber Valley.

Those attending SYDIC can access a wide range of services, including computers and Wi-Fi, gaming, arts, creative workshops, cooking sessions, physical activities, and mental health support.

The funding will also allow youth workers to run activities during the school holidays, and provide training on issues such as substance misuse, online safety, and risk-taking behaviour.

More than 100 young people have accessed SYDIC regularly so far this year.

Ms Mudd said: “I am pleased to continue supporting the team at SYDIC to provide a much‑needed youth provision in an area where there is limited support for young people.”

Ms Mudd said the death of 17-year-old Tristan Kerr in Abertridwr earlier this year “has left many young people seeking a safe space and trusted adults to talk to”.

“As a result, the centre saw an increase in attendance,” Ms Mudd explained. “It is reassuring to see young people engaging positively and feeling confident accessing support from staff.”

She added: “By supporting communities to deliver the services they know are most needed locally, we are helping to create safer environments for young people while also reducing demand on frontline public services.”

Matthew Thorne, senior youth worker at SYDIC, said: “Many young people come to us needing support with emotional wellbeing, relationships, managing conflict, and building positive friendship groups.

“We provide a safe space, meaningful activities, and opportunities to support education and employment.

“These services are vital in a rural area like the Aber Valley, and we would like to thank the police and crime commissioner for her continued support.”