BAKERY giant Warburtons is to spend £9,580 funding a young persons drop-in service in Bolton. 

The contribution from the firm is aimed at improving the drop-in centre, which provides social activities and support sessions for the 96 young people living at Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme (BYPHS) at any one time. 

The cash will be used to deliver weekly courses in art and music, social trips, and extra staffing to provide another two drop-in sessions. 

Starting in July, 2015, the project will run for a year. 

Warburtons executive director Brett Warburton said: “As a family company, it is important to us to provide meaningful support to the communities we operate in. 

“The drop-in provides a valuable service for young people facing isolation and we are delighted to be able to help ensure that young people in Bolton have a place to go and something to do when they need it.” 

BYPHS prevents homelessness among 16 to 25-year-olds by providing supported furnished housing. 

Yet many of those benefiting from the accommodation still experience loneliness, boredom and exploitation, often leading to repeat homelessness. 

The young persons drop-In aims to reduce the chances of young people engaging in negative behaviours and friendships while still vulnerable, and to increase engagement with the counselling services. 

Up to 250 people live on the scheme in a year and drop in sessions are offered to all. 

Director at BYPHS Maura Jackson said: “Young people today often face a number of challenging issues and the funding from Warburtons will go a long way in providing them with support when feeling lonely and secluded. 

“The drop-in is an important service for the community and makes a real difference to those it helps.” 

The partnership with BYPHS is part of Warburtons’ Families Matter programme, which focuses on supporting families in local communities across Britain.