There is a light that must never go out – Film launched in last bid attempt to save Salford Lads’ & Girls’ Club

Salford Lads’ & Girls’ Club, a cherished institution that has supported the youth of Salford since 1903, is making a final appeal for donations to meet its £250,000 fundraising target before the end of November 2024.

With just days left, the campaign seeks to ensure that the club’s doors remain open, preserving a vital community hub and piece of cultural history.

Salford Lads Club – a light that must stay on

As part of the campaign, the club released a moving short film inspired by The Smiths’ lyrics There is a Light That Never Goes Out. The film, which aired previously on television, highlights the transformative impact the club has had on young people and volunteers over its 121-year history.

You can watch the film below

Dennis Lewtas, the club’s longest-serving member who joined at 13 and still volunteers at nearly 73, reflects on its significance:

He said: “We’re the biggest youth provider in the City, since 1903 we’ve had over 22,500 members pass through our doors, and we hope we can say we’ve been a factor in making those kids feel valued and keeping them out of trouble.

“We try and teach the kids values, principles and how to build friendships, all of which we hope they carry with them throughout adulthood. But it’s not just about the kids in someways, but about the volunteers, it gives them a sense of belonging.

“It would be a shame for the lights to go out, not only for the kids of Salford but for the people of Salford because it’s an institution. If you turn the lights out where do the kids go, they come here and have a sense of purpose.”

Youth worker Blaine Haney, who grew up at the club, echoes this sentiment, saying: “The club plays a massive role in the community, we keep kids off the street and keep them safe and out of trouble by providing this safe space for them. I used to come here when I was a kid, and I know if I didn’t come to the club, I may well have gotten myself into trouble. The club has massively changed my life.

“This club kept me safe and it’s protected my mental health. It’s a happy space and it’s always been a family environment for its members and the volunteers. We just want to raise as much money as possible so we’re not ever in this position again and we can keep the facilities and services we offer available for those in the community who need them.”

A community rallies

The club has already raised over £229,000 through more than 1,200 donations since October, with support from local businesses, Salford Council, and high-profile figures, including musicians like Morrissey, Graham Nash and The Courteeners.

Now, with only a few thousand pounds left to reach the target, the final push is on.

Supporters have rallied around the club’s plight, with past fundraising events like exhibitions and fairs helping to bring in much-needed funds. However, the urgency remains as the November 30 deadline approaches.

How to Help

The clock is ticking to save this historic institution, and every donation counts.

Contributions can be made through the official GoFundMe page by clicking here ensuring the club continues its mission to provide a safe, inspiring space for the youth of Salford.

Let’s keep the light shining at Salford Lads’ & Girls’ Club and secure its future for generations to come.