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Preston’s new youth zone in Lord Street opposite Preston Bus Station has welcomed their head of youth work, ahead of their planned opening in the summertime this year.
Work began in the last year on the new £11m building and it is now starting to take shape.
The Youth Zone, named Vault, appointed Michael Wilkinson who brings a ‘wealth of experience’ in youth engagement.
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Michael previously worked at Inspire, the OnSide Youth Zone in Chorley and Fleetwood Town FC Community Trust.
With a background in sports coaching and youth work, he is passionate about creating a fun, welcoming, and safe space where young people can express themselves.
Michael said: “It is great to be involved as Head of Youth Work at Vault Youth Zone
“After working with other Youth Zones in the network and witnessing the incredible impact they have on young people and their communities, I am excited to contribute to providing the best opportunities for young people in Preston. The passion to support young people in the city is already evident, and by working in partnership with local youth service providers, we have a fantastic platform to make a real difference.”
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Michael will oversee Vault’s universal youth work offering, ensuring that young people can engage in activities, including sports, creative arts, and personal development programmes.
He will also help build a team of dedicated youth workers and work alongside partners such as The Foxton Centre and Lancashire Youth Challenge.
Alongside Michael, Vault Youth Zone welcomed Natalie Dugdale as Head of HR and Operations, Nichola Strahan as Philanthropy Manager and Omar Khan as Community Engagement Manager.
Tim Jacques, Vault Youth Zone CEO, welcomed the charity’s new appointments, saying: “I am delighted to welcome Michael, Natalie, Nichola and Omar to the Vault team.
“We are thrilled to have Michael leading our youth work at the charity. His experience, passion, and dedication to young people make him the perfect fit for this role. Michael’s leadership will ensure that Vault Youth Zone becomes a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive space where young people can develop their skills, build confidence, and reach their full potential.”
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