After nearly 90 years of service, we’re delighted to announce a new partnership that will take Knights into a new era.
It has been a challenging financial environment for youth clubs for some time now. While many have been forced to close their doors for good, we’ve continued to thrive thanks in no small part to a wonderful, committed team and a supportive community around us.
But today we’re delighted to announce a partnership that will see us join Oasis, a family of charities and one of the most experienced and respected organisations in UK youth work.
This is a really big deal for us. Why? Well, Oasis has huge experience managing youth centres, local schools and community hubs across London and the UK. It shares our values and ambitions, too. Bringing Knights together with Oasis will help us offer even better, more engaging and effective services for young people.
Having carefully considered this partnership for many months, we’re excited about the future. The new club – tentatively called Oasis at Knights – will blend the best of our experience with Oasis’ leadership, ideas and resources. Crucially, the same great team of youth leaders will be around to deliver great service to local young people.
The transition will happen gradually over the coming year as we make sure there’s no disruption to our services. We’ll keep you posted: do keep an eye out for more updates here and on and social media channels. In the meantime, if you have any questions about this news, feel free to drop us a line via Chrisg@knightsyouthcentre.org.uk
Here’s to a bright future.
Millicent Grant KC (Hon), Chair of Knights Youth Centre said:
“I’m excited we’re joining forces with Oasis. Knights has been a constant presence in this area for nearly 90 years: Oasis has the experience to build on this heritage and help support, sustain and develop our work into the future. By blending our skills, passion and experience, the partnership will see the centre continue to adapt to the needs of young people and the local community in the years ahead.“We believe it will open-up fantastic opportunities for young people, staff and volunteers – and other youth-focused organisations in south London – to fulfil their potential and make valuable contributions to the community.”
Founder of Oasis, Steve Chalke MBE, said:
“It’s brilliant to have Knights joining the Oasis family. Knights has a long history of grassroots work, providing opportunities for young people to explore their aspirations, strengths and skills, and setting them up for life. This new Oasis @ Knights partnership will work hand-in-hand with Oasis St Martin’s Village – also opened just this month, less than a mile away.“We believe radical change is needed to invest in a joined-up, therapeutic, inclusive approach to the whole ecosystem of young people’s lives, ensuring they receive the support they need and deserve. The only way to achieve a lasting reduction in youth violence, knife crime, and exploitation is to double down on inclusion and to invest in local provision and opportunity in local communities, where young people are known and can grow and thrive. Our partnership with Knights will do just that.”