Originally built in 1706 as a town house, Kingsley Hall sits among 60 listed buildings in Bristol’s historic Old Market – which was once a medieval marketplace.
The project will repair the building and roof and transform the historic site into accommodation, training facilities, a skills kitchen and a community café. It will support those who have experienced homelessness, care leavers and young people seeking asylum. Each year around 1,600 will benefit from opportunities to build skills, access training and employment, improved wellbeing and increased confidence to live independently
A key aim of the project is to value, recognise and respect young people as experts in their own lives. Their advice in the development phase has been critical, including:
- reviewing plans
- providing strategic advice
- helping to design the space to meet young people's needs
Dom Wood, CEO at 1625 Independent People, says: “For a young person leaving care or facing homelessness, having somewhere safe and welcoming can change everything. Kingsley Hall is a key part of Bristol's vibrant history of social change – and this project ensures it will continue to be a place where young people can find stability, support and build a sense of belonging.”
If you’re interested in running a project that meaningfully engages children and young people, read our good practice guidance.
