Torbay Foyer transforms space for young people’s future

Young people living at Torbay Foyer are enjoying a newly refurbished kitchen space following a major upgrade funded by local businesses.

The supported housing service, which offers accommodation to up to 20 young people and parents aged 16 to 25, has transformed its industrial-style kitchen into a modern, homely space designed to support independent living skills and improve wellbeing.

The project, delivered in partnership with housing association LiveWest, was made possible through more than £11,800 in donations from businesses including Howdens, Jewson Partnership Solutions, City Electrical Factors, Fibo UK, Vaillant Group, Bradfords Building Supplies, Rexel and Cobwebs South West.

Talika Wright, a resident at Torbay Foyer, said: "It's really good. There are dishwashers here – we are young people, we are teenagers, and at the end of the day we hate doing dishes.

"It will help people who want to work as a chef by being in a more professional kitchen. It will be good for more socialisation and cooking groups, helping young people learn how to cook and build life skills.”

Above: Talika with a team member from LiveWest

Eight LiveWest apprentices were involved in the project, gaining hands-on experience during the refurbishment. Young residents were also offered the opportunity to learn about careers in the trades.

Jenny Endean, Service Lead for Young People at LiveWest, said: “The kitchen that’s just been refurbished has been a great partnership and showed true collaboration between a variety of contractors and our internal colleagues.

“What it means is that we have a kitchen where young people can come together, learn their independent skills around cooking as well as socialisation and really get to know each other.”

The new space is expected to benefit residents for years to come, helping them build essential skills such as cooking and cleaning – crucial steps on the journey to independent living.

Nick Barbour, from Howdens, said: “Here at Howdens our role in the community is to support the towns and cities where we operate so that we can have a positive impact.

“We were delighted when we were asked to support LiveWest with the donation of a kitchen for the Torbay Foyer and hope our contribution will go some way to helping the young residents to live, learn and thrive.”

Torbay Foyer is one of several schemes across the South West where LiveWest provides emergency and long-term accommodation for young people and parents, alongside support in areas such as education, employment, counselling and financial guidance.

James Chambers, General Manager at Jewson Partnership Solutions, said: “It’s a real pleasure to be involved in supporting such a meaningful project. The recent refurbishment opens the doors for individuals to gain hands-on, practical life skills and experience.

“The new kitchen area will have a lasting impact on the community for years to come.”

Colin Bramley, from City Electrical Factors, added: “We are proud to support this upgrade. Our contribution is part of our social value commitment and will help provide a safe environment where young people can get back on their feet.”