York’s new information, advice, support and counselling centre for young adults will be officially launched on Friday 13 July.

Castlegate, which is located on Castlegate, opened back in January but the formal launch will provide an opportunity for invited guests to view the premises and find out about the range of services on offer.  Artwork from various schools and colleges will be also be on display, in keeping with the building's former use as the Impressions gallery.

Funding for the refurbishment of the building came from the Strategic Health Authority and Connexions, whilst core funding will come from City of York Council, Connexions and the York and North Yorkshire Primary Care Trust.  Its development will enable the council and its partners to meet government priorities aimed at delivering a more joined-up youth support service.

Castlegate is aimed at 16 to 25 year olds and brings a range of services together under one roof.  Young people visiting the centre will be able to access information, advice and support on work and learning; careers; housing; money and benefits; and sexual and mental health. Castlegate is home to the local Connexions service for young adults. A counselling service and group work is also available.

The centre was based in the heart of the city to reflect that importance that young adults who were consulted as part of the planning process placed upon an easy-to reach, accessible and central location. Young adults also played an important role in the design and decoration of the building.

Dawn Moores, the manager of Castlegate, said: “Since we opened our doors for business back in January, the feedback from young adults has been really positive.  The range of services available here has already been accessed by hundreds of young people.  The launch event is an opportunity to celebrate what we have achieved so far and showcase the fantastic facilities that we have here.”

The drop-in is open from Monday to Friday between the hours of 12 noon and 5pm, with a late night opening until 7pm on Thursdays and a Saturday sexual health drop-in between 12 noon and 3pm.  Appointments are also available in the morning for Connexions and counselling.