Safe space ‘The Yard’ opened in Bury St Edmunds' cathedral

The sustainability and youth project called ‘The Yard’ includes the area of the cathedral that was previously left overgrown and has been redeveloped as part of this social action for young people. 

‘The Yard’ has been designed to offer a safe space where young people can come and spend time, learn new skills, meet new friends and improve their mental health, wellbeing and resilience.   

The calm and peaceful space, combined with small group sizes and a relaxed atmosphere that takes things at each young person’s pace, has proved particularly positive for the young visitors.  

Safe space for young people opened in St Edmundsbury Cathedral gardens, Mark Pendlington and Nathan Rance, St Edmundsbury Cathedral (Image: St Edmundsbury Cathedral)

Feedback consistently shows that their wellbeing improves after time spent at ‘The Yard’.   Attendees also see other benefits such as learning new skills, increasing their confidence, and learning to make decisions. 

Reverend Joe Hawes, Dean of St Edmundsbury Cathedral, said: "I am proud to celebrate the excellent work ‘The Yard’ project has been doing since it was launched last year, and in particular, the gently welcoming, reassuring, and sensitive presence of Jane Dow, the project worker.  

Safe space for young people opened in St Edmundsbury Cathedral gardens, Jane Down, Nathan Rance and Mark Pendlington, St Edmundsbury Cathedral (Image: St Edmundsbury Cathedral)

"As the Project has begun to welcome young people to a space that is genuinely inclusive, healing and safe, we begin to see outcomes for them which include a marked improvement in mental health, growing confidence and engagement with good role models.  

"At a time of real challenge to our young people, The Yard stands for something hopeful, life giving and inclusive. I am proud that St Edmundsbury Cathedral is committed to it." 

Safe space for young people opened in St Edmundsbury Cathedral gardens, St Edmundsbury Cathedral (Image: St Edmundsbury Cathedral)

'The Yard' was opened by Mark Pendlington, Suffolk’s High Sheriff and the senior non-executive member of St Edmundsbury Cathedral’s Chapter, who was assisted by Nathan Rance, an attendee of The Yard’s holiday activities who has helped create features in the garden such as a bird table and bee house.