Waltham Abbey Young People’s Information Centre

WAYPIC
38 Sun Street
Waltham Abbey
EN9 1EJ

WAYPIC is open:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday - 3pm-6pm
Tuesday - 10am-1pm

The dream of a place in Waltham Abbey where young people could go for information about careers and health and relationships was realised with the opening of WAYPIC. It can be found in the old jewellers shop opposite the library in Sun Street, Waltham Abbey.

Lots of hard work by a dedicated group of people from a variety of agencies went into turning the old shop into a welcoming place that young people actually want to visit. Receptionists Charlie and Katy are fast getting to know the visitors who come through the doors on a regular basis. There are three computers with Internet access and a lounge with comfortable chairs and a drinks machine for those who just want to sit and chat. But at the same time there is loads of information and leaflets available to help with issues of concern to today’s youngsters. Counsellors, careers advice experts, drug and alcohol advisers and people from the Citizens’ Advice Bureau hold regular sessions at the centre and more groups will be brought in to support WAYPIC as the need arises. Helen Prentice, a nurse practitioner employed by Epping Forest Primary Care Trust offers health advice.

“WAYPIC is not a youth club but a place where young people can come to meet friends and seek advice and support for anything that’s worrying them,” said Helen.“I’ve had a few mums from the surgery who have encouraged their lads to come along and word is spreading that we’re here to help.” 13 to 25 year olds are the target age group for WAYPIC and students from King Harold School have been involved in helping create the ideal young persons’ place. They’re responsible for the graffiti artwork in the front room. Former Epping Forest District Councillor, Norma Green is one of the driving forces behind the project and chairs the committee that made it happen. Now it’s up and running they need funds to keep it going so are looking for volunteer fund-raisers to make sure that the good work can continue.

If you’d like to help please contact the centre on:

01992 788305