For nearly 150 years, Massey Feeds have been a family business with deep roots in Cheshire. Built on strong values, supporting the local community and creating opportunities for young people has always been central to its success.
When Managing Director Kynan Massey first stepped inside an OnSide Youth Zone, it wasn’t just the impressive facilities that caught his attention, it was the atmosphere.
“I visited Warrington Youth Zone, and it was absolutely amazing,” he says. “The range of activities was incredibly impressive. There really was something for everybody, it felt so inclusive and had such a happy atmosphere. More than anything, it was a safe place with brilliant youth workers for young people to talk to and trust.”
Like many adults, Kynan found himself imagining what it would have been like to have somewhere like that growing up.
“I wish I’d had something like it when I was younger. I’d definitely have spent time in the gym and exercise spaces because I’ve always enjoyed keeping active. The kitchen would have appealed to me too from a nutrition point of view.”
Although Kynan has known OnSide Founder Bill Holroyd CBE DL, for around 15 years and was familiar with the history of Bolton Lads and Girls Club, he had no idea a Youth Zone was coming to Crewe until he spoke with The Dome’s Chair, Graham Ramsbottom.
“Once I heard about it, getting involved felt like the right thing to do.”
For Massey Feeds, supporting The Dome is a natural extension of the company’s commitment to the local community.
“We’re a family business and we’ll celebrate our 150th anniversary in two years’ time. Being part of the local community is incredibly important to us. We employ lots of local people, including young people wherever we can, so giving something back has always been part of who we are.”
Having worked in the business for three decades, Kynan has seen first-hand how the transition into employment has changed for young people.
“The expectations, pressures and experiences young people face today are very different. As a business, we invest time in helping apprentices and new starters understand what working life involves and supporting them as they develop. But there’s only so much we can do within our own organisation.”
“Supporting The Dome allows us to make a much bigger difference by helping young people build confidence and develop the life skills they’ll carry with them into adulthood.”
For Kynan, the importance of places like The Dome goes far beyond employment.
“Every young person is a blank canvas when they’re born, and their experiences shape who they become. People say it takes a village to raise a child, but it seems that young people growing up today are more isolated so I can really see the need for giving young people a place to access support and build those community connections that have been eroded over time.”
“We had youth clubs when we were growing up, but many of those places have disappeared. Bringing something like The Dome back into the heart of our community is incredibly important because it gives young people somewhere they belong.”
He also believes the support available at The Dome couldn’t be more timely.
“We’re seeing more and more young people struggling with anxiety and their mental health. Whether that’s because of social media, COVID or a combination of things, I don’t know. But having somewhere safe to go and trusted adults to talk to is so important.”
Just as importantly, Kynan sees The Dome as a place where young people can broaden their horizons.
“It’s easy to spend time with people who think exactly as you do. At somewhere like The Dome, young people have the chance to meet different people, build new friendships and learn from different perspectives. That’s a really valuable experience.”
His advice to anyone considering supporting The Dome is simple.
“Go and visit a Youth Zone.”
“Once you’ve seen one, you understand the difference they’re making. I’d encourage anyone to get involved because we have to invest in our young people. So much has disappeared over the years, and places like The Dome are an important part of helping young people and communities thrive.”
Looking ahead, Kynan hopes The Dome will leave a lasting legacy for Crewe.
“I hope every young person who walks through the doors leaves feeling more confident, with more life skills and a greater belief in what they can achieve.”
“And I hope that, years from now, The Dome is still at the heart of the community, helping raise aspirations, creating opportunities and playing its part in making Crewe an even better place to live.”