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ALT We are saddened by the events in our town centre yesterday. There is no place for hate and intimidation in Bolton. We are a town that has long been built on friendliness and unity with one another. The Octagon is a Theatre of Sanctuary. We offer a safe and welcoming space, and invite everyone who shares our values of Inclusion, Care and Curiosity to join us. Together, we can build a stronger, happier, and creative community.
ALT WHAT WE ARE DOING So young people know... SUPPORT SPACES We have two online support spaces set up, and we will add more dependent on need. Please register using the link in our bio. EMERGENCY LINE - YOUNG PEOPLE We are setting up a 24hr emergency line for young people this week, which can be called in complete emergency if targeted on the way home, by people or police. This will build very slowly and be a long term project. It will only go out to young people we know first to ensure we can provide support across a small team of line workers. NETWORKS We are leaning into networks to see what can be built together, that includes anti-racist groups in London looking to resource up North, Black and brown youth workers here, and activists.
ALT WHAT WE ARE DOING So young people know... NEW SPACES We are discussing what we can offer in consistent new spaces. Currently we are thinking of a solidarity space for all young people, for both education and practical upskilling to support one another in community. Our Boys and Love project will consider what their contribution can be going forward. RESOURCES We are in the process of developing resources that could be useful, whether for other youth organisations, teachers or for narrative shifts online. We want to do this with other organisations. OUR YOUTH WORK Our standard spaces will continue as usual for now, we will look to put things in place around travel to ensure you feel safer.
ALT FOR OTHER ORGANISATIONS OR PEOPLE CONTACTING US Our staff team have been told our focus for now is on young people and families, and taking time and care for ourselves. It's a balance of adapting and picking up efforts where needed, but cutting off less necessary work so we don't burn out. Please understand our staff members may need to cancel meetings last minute to prioritise young people, families, their own care, loved ones, or being reactive to community call outs. Young people and families, you are always welcome to contact. For everyone else, please think before you contact us for anything, we do not want to receive emails about trainings. If unsure of how to support your own staff right now, we as a team are checking in daily, staff can take any time they need, staff have been given a travel fund for getting around safely and to and from call outs, and we will get some joy planned in.
