Mary Creagh MP, Councillor Kamran Caan, CEO Christabel Rossi, and other staff and members of the Highlife Centre
Mary Creagh, MP for Coventry East, visited the Highlife Centre in Upper Stoke on Thursday 29th October to see first-hand the charity’s work supporting young people and local entrepreneurs.
During her visit, Mary met young people involved in the centre’s music and fashion activities. She then joined a meeting with Christabell, Rossi and Aimee from the Highlife Centre, who updated her on the charity’s work and its impact in the local community. Sarah and Geraldine from the Lloyds Bank Foundation and Lloyds Banking Group also spoke about the support they provide to the centre.
The Highlife Centre has been running for 14 years, providing services that tackle social, economic and cultural challenges. Its tailored support, access to resources and holistic programmes help individuals and communities build confidence and grow both personally and professionally.
The centre is also backed by the Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, as part of the £270,000 Shared Hub Fund, which is helping to pay for consultants, workshops and facilities.
One young person who works with the centre’s performing arts team told Mary that being at the centre is a really nice experience where everyone can come together. They said it had helped them find themselves culturally, and gave them a place to take a break from their caring responsibilities.
The centre regularly hosts theatre performances, fashion shows and other cultural and performing arts events.
Mary Creagh MP said:
“I’m really happy to visit the Highlife Centre and see the great work that is being done in the heart of the community. Three of my priorities are giving every child the best start in life, improving our local health services, and tackling crime, and the work happening here speaks to all three.
“Organisations like the Highlife Centre are vital in helping young people into work and I’m grateful to the Lloyds Bank Foundation for backing charities like this. I will always champion great community organisations like them, and look forward to welcoming them to Parliament.”