My heart is heavy today. In the early hours of this morning, our safe space at UTurn Hub was broken into.

Stolen items include iPads, PlayStations, Xbox’s, arts and crafts supplies used daily by the children, and our money collection pots, plus something far more precious: handmade bracelets our young people created with so much pride. Much of what was taken was gifted to us or raised through donations, given in kindness to keep our work running.

This isn’t just a charity supporting young people, it’s also a busy community hub, running activities all week long for everyone locally. It’s far more than a building; it’s their sanctuary, where they feel seen, supported, encouraged, and given real hope and opportunities.

The kids are deeply upset and feel violated in their own special space. Seeing them hurt like this is truly heartbreaking.

We’re still assessing the full impact on all our youth sessions and community activities. We’re launching this fundraiser not just to replace what was stolen, but to show these young people and our whole community their value hasn’t changed, that this hub still matters, and everyone here is protected.

If anyone saw anything suspicious, has information, or is offered items linked to UTurn, please contact us or Essex Police.

If you can help us mend this, even in the smallest way, please donate below. Let’s show our young people and community that kindness is stronger than this act of cruelty 🧡🖤