Today Sophie Jerrold had the privilege of being shown around Kingsley Hall – the existing HQ of 1625 Independent People – ahead of what will become an extraordinary transformation.
Soon, this historic space will evolve into a state-of-the-art, youth-led hub: a one-stop-shop bringing together the incredible work 1625 already delivers to support young people facing homelessness, leaving care or at risk of homelessness across Bristol and the South West.
What struck me most was not simply the scale of the redevelopment, but the ambition behind it. This is not just a building project – it is the creation of a life-changing space where young people can access practical support, trusted relationships, wellbeing activities, skills development, creativity, housing support and opportunities to thrive.
1625’s work already changes lives every day through accommodation, emotional support, peer connection, employability and wellbeing programmes. Their events and fundraising activities – from Sleep Out to challenge events and community campaigns – also demonstrate the huge collective effort behind sustaining that support.
Standing in Kingsley Hall today, it was impossible not to feel excited about what this could become for young people across Bristol. A welcoming, ambitious and deeply human space designed around possibility, not crisis.
I feel certain that, once realised, this will become a flagship building for the region – a bold, compassionate and youth-centred space that other cities will look to for inspiration and replication. In a time when so many young people are facing complex challenges, Kingsley Hall has the potential to demonstrate what is possible when ambition, trust and long-term investment in young people come together under one roof.
If you’re looking for a meaningful challenge while supporting this incredible work, 1625’s fundraising adventure, climbing Mount Toubkal trek in 2027 is a brilliant opportunity to get involved. 🌍⛰️
📣 Find out more and sign up here: https://lnkd.in/ewfF7Atw
Huge admiration to everyone involved in bringing this vision to life. Bristol is stronger because of organisations like 1625 Independent People. What a team.
