Nov 12, 2024

Hope, Pizza and opportunity

The old pensioners’ hut has reached the end of its life.

For years it stood as a reminder of a building that had once served the community well, but time had taken its toll. The structure had become unsafe, unusable and a focal point for vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Rather than simply remove another neglected building, we asked a bigger question.

What could this space become?

That question became the beginning of Slice of Hope.

Our vision is to create something completely different.

A place where young people can volunteer. Learn practical skills. Build confidence. Gain work experience. And become active members of their community.

The project will combine skills development, mentoring and enterprise in a way that creates genuine opportunities for young people, particularly those who may be struggling to find their next step.

The idea has been shaped through community consultation, with local people telling us they wanted more opportunities for young people and more positive community spaces.

With support from the National Lottery Community Fund and Wigan Council, work is now beginning to remove the unsafe structure and create a new future for this part of Lowton Community Hub.

Today we are sharing the vision.

Over the coming months we’ll share the journey.

We hope you’ll join us as Slice of Hope begins to take shape.

Building Futures Where Others Saw Failure

Skills, support, and shared space creating opportunity for young people and the wider community.

Slice of Hope is about creating futures, not just fixing spaces. The project will provide a platform for young people not in education, employment, or training to gain skills, qualifications, and real experience in a structured, supportive environment.

Alongside this, the surrounding outdoor space supports workshops, training, and community events that bring people together.