IN THE PANDEMIC fall-out, the Crossover Youth Centre in Liss is opening more sessions, recruiting staff and volunteers, and providing more services to young people in the village and surrounding areas.

The centre in Station Road was founded in 2006 and supports local young people and their families, providing mentoring and open sessions, and street-based youth work.

Spokesman Georgina Leigh said: “We are delighted to be able to host more sessions and see a greater selection of young people now that we are ‘out and about’ again.

“Our service is especially invaluable to young people now due to the considerable stress of Covid and its impact on wellbeing.”

During the lockdowns, the independent charity staffed by part time employees and volunteers, worked with young people on a booking basis, and through their Street Based Project with a skeleton staff.

Crossover hosts sessions during the week for different age groups, and now provides specific and specialist support – such as life skills and employment, counselling, and more. And work on the ‘streets’ of Liss and surrounding areas has also stepped up – and the team has a new uniform.

Georgina added: “It has been a total morale boost in this difficult time and we’ve had great responses – apparently we look smart but approachable – which is the goal!

“It wouldn’t have been possible without considerable support from Ella Townsend who raised money for us, and won Villager of the Year as a result. Thanks Ella!”

For details about the Crossover and joining the team visit the website at https://www.crossoverliss.org.uk