A youth centre located in Beeston, Nottingham, runs family-orientated events and is supportive of the local community.
Laura Beardmore, from Long Eaton, who is the manager, sat down to discuss how Pearson supports the community and some of the challenges they’ve been facing.
When asked about how the youth centre helps immigrant children, she spoke about how there are ‘designated coaches who can speak Mandarin to assist Chinese students’ and how she believes Pearson ’embraces the different cultures that are in Beeston.’
This commitment to inclusivity is especially vital given the broader challenges the centre faces with current news constantly berating and demonising migrants.
In recent times, the cost-of-living crisis has put pressure on families. However, Pearson does provide support for those who need it.
Laura said: “We do have a collection point for donations to the Trussell Trust (foodbank) and we signpost people to help if they need it.”
“In the year from April 2024 to March 2025, food banks in the UK distributed 2.9 million emergency food parcels—the equivalent of one parcel every 11 seconds.”
Not only does the centre provide families with support, but there are also fun activities that happen during the week. These are: sports, artistic activities and a panto show for those who want to get involved.
She shared her insights: “It’s very family-orientated. We’ve got a pantomime that’s been running since 1954 by Bob Wilson, and it has been passed down to his grandson, Tom Wilson, who is now our pantomime dame and trustee.”
The Pearson Centre is a self-funded hub rooted in the Boys and Girls Brigade (ages 4-18). With 58 volunteers, it champions inclusivity and aids Beeston families through the cost-of-living crisis, offering a crucial path for success.
