THE vital need to support young people through difficult times in their lives has been highlighted by a youth worker in Welwyn Garden City.

Andrew Ng got involved with youth work when he was in his teens after being inspired by his youth pastor who was there for him during a difficult period in his life.

He told the Review how through his work over the last 15 years as a youth worker, but only with YMCA Central Herts since February this year, he has been able to change lives for the better.

Andrew, who works at Space Welwyn Garden City, said: "I got into youth work because of my faith, my mentor and because I am passionate that young people should feel supported like I was when I was young.

"I am one of those blessed people, as I see this as a vocation and I really enjoy serving young people and their families.  Even during challenging and difficult times I still enjoy the work immensely.

"What motivates me are both my faith and being able to be there for young people - like my mentor was, and still is for me now and when I was young. 

"Not everyone is aware that when serving and working with young people, changes in their lives can be very small and it may not always occur during the period of time we are with them. 

"Therefore, for me spending time, building a relationship, engaging and accompanying young people is what motivates me and is the most important aspect of serving and working alongside young people, even if it's only for five minutes having a milkshake with them."

At Space Andrew said it is his personal aim to be there for them in any capacity and being able to encourage them to engage and build a relationship with them.

The Space youth centre provides an informal walk-in centre for people to have a drink, something to eat, relax or get advice on issues affecting their lives.

Giving an example of how he's seen a young person develop through YMCA's work Andrew said: "A young person who is known to the social services and police now sees helping out and being at Space as work. 

"I was told this by his key worker, who also noticed positive changes in this particular person. 

"The young person has been known to Space for a few years and earlier this year he wanted to set up a street dance workshop for other young people, but was left feeling angry due to young people not listening to him and misbehaving. 

"During the time I’ve known him, whenever he showed up I listen to him and encouraged him and provided food for him when he was hungry. 

"I allowed him to join the afternoon session even when he was not allowed due to his age and I’ve accompanied him to the police station.

"The young person asked if he could start his street dance workshop again and for the last month he has been doing and also started to help out in our earlier session by being a role model."

Andrew described the aspect of helping young people reach their goals and supporting them within the community they live as reasons for wanting to work for YMA Central Herts.

The Review has teamed up with YMCA and are together aiming to raise £80,000 to transform the basement area of the new Space in Hatfield.

All the money raised will be put to good use at Space either by paying for the refurbishment or by contributing towards the running costs.

Every week the Review will publish an article showing our readers the incredible work that goes on behind the scenes at this unique charity. We also want to hear from anyone who has been helped by YMCA Central Herts.

You can donate online by clicking the related link below or send a cheque made payable to "Central Herts YMCA" to YMCA Central Herts, 2 Tewin Court, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 1AU. Or you can email fundraising@ymcacentralherts.org.uk or call 01707 290717.