Court Road side of The HUB, Barry

Image: © Jaggery Taken: 28 Feb 2013

Barry YMCA was established in the town in 1890. By 1997, Barry YMCA was near closure, with no money, the old building in disrepair and only four staff remaining. Gymnastics was the only activity keeping the centre open. Then a new management team was formed and a development plan put in place. The result was the HUB seen here, a £2¾ million building, entrance on the Gladstone Road side, which was constructed in 2005. It opened on January 12th 2006. Some details and figures from 2009 show the success of the new building: Income is generated from the sale of membership services, room hire and continuous fundraising. 46 people are employed, supported by 38 dedicated volunteers. The HUB is home to 5 other charities, a small business and a dedicated day unit for adults with multiple disabilities. In an average week, more than 1,000 children and young people attend activities here. Another 3000 people (parents, general public and hirers) also use the HUB each week.

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