In May 1995 Woodbridge Town Council established a Young People’s Initiative working party, to examine the needs and aspirations of young people in Woodbridge. As a result of their investigations, it was decided to establish a young people’s resource and social centre in the town....

When it became vacant, Rochford House was identified as an ideal property, as it was in the middle of the town. After a period of negotiations, the house was leased from Suffolk Coastal District Council and altered to provide a welcoming centre for young people in the 13-19 age group.

Alongside the House came Rochford Trust which was set up as a registered Charity with funding from the Lottery Charities Board, Woodbridge Town Council, Deben Rotary Club, Seckford Foundation and Suffolk Coastal District Council. The House opened its door in September 1997 and has provided a friendly, constructive atmosphere for young people ever since.

In short, we aim to:

• Serve the 12-25 age group with a main target of 13-19 year olds
• Be a well run centre for the young people of Woodbridge and the surrounding area
• Make a positive difference to the lives of disadvantaged and disaffected young people
• Open as often as possible with a varied programme for our target audience
• Be a place in which all young people feel welcome, safe and supported
• Build young people’s self esteem
• Divert people away from crime, unplanned pregnancies and addiction
• To support decision making and encourage the development of socially aware young citizens
• Regularly evaluate our work to bring about improvements as necessary
• Recruit a sufficient numbers of high quality staff
• Maintain our financial support and enter into relevant partnerships