The MYTI Club provides care for young people in the Tadworth and surrounding area through the provision of after school and school holiday youth club facilities.

MYTI operates from The Phoenix Centre, next to the Tadworth Leisure Centre. It caters for young people aged 8 to 15 but particularly children living on the Preston Estate. It provides a range of activities including sport, art, IT, personal development opportunities and mental health support.

A key objective is to decrease anti-social behaviour in the area by keeping young people off the streets and by giving them a voice to drive their own self-improvement capabilities. The Club also provides hot meals for attendees, many of whom may go without if not provided.

The Phoenix Centre has an indoor sports hall which is used for a range of activities including basketball, dodge ball, football and boxing.

Art is also a medium widely used in the club to encourage self-expression, reduce stress and develop creativity. Artistic activities are also used to address mental wellbeing and encourage discussion about children’s issues and concerns.

This includes painting, drawing and model making as well as photography and video.

Founded in 2018 by local businessman Tony Britto, the club has around 200 children on its books and, regularly, has attendance of 70 per session. It has been financed mainly from Tony’s resources but receives support from the YMCA, Active Surrey and from our local councillors. But it needs to achieve charitable status to be eligible for the grants that will ensure it continues and is able to grow to meet the needs of local children.

The application is progressing well, but in particular, the club is looking for a local lawyer who would be prepared to act as a trustee and advise on legal matters. Contact john@tandpr.org.uk if you are or know of someone who may be interested in helping the club.

MYTI’s Halloween Week

MYTI opens on Friday evenings but also provides an essential service to young people during the school holidays.

During the holidays. MYTI provides a programme of activities which have included trips to the seaside and specialist visitors including Zoo Lab and Fizz Pop Science. The Club also provides a free breakfast and hot lunch for members.

During this last half-term week, they have held a Halloween focused programme of events.

This included pumpkin carving and monster related art and model making from recyclable materials.

Children were encouraged to come in fancy dress and some seriously spooky characters took part.

There were lots of fun and games including “Mummy Making”. It’s amazing what you can do with a bumper pack of toilet rolls!

The MYTI Club provides a valuable resource to the community but needs more financial support if is to continue.