A Safe, Creative and Fun Space for Young People to Explore and Express Themselves
CR8 & Play at Diverse Youth NI’s South Hub is a vibrant, youth-friendly programme designed for young people aged 7 to 14. It offers a nurturing after-school environment where children can create, play, learn new skills and build positive friendships.
The South Hub brings together young people from a wide range of cultural and community backgrounds, making it a warm and inclusive space where creativity thrives and every child belongs.
What Is CR8 & Play?
CR8 & Play (Create and Play) is built on the belief that creativity and play are essential to a child’s confidence, wellbeing and development.
The programme blends structured activities with free play, giving young people opportunities to:
Express themselves through art and creativity
Build confidence and communication skills
Develop teamwork and problem-solving abilities
Enjoy a fun, safe space after school
Explore their identity and learn about others
Strengthen emotional wellbeing
Sessions are designed to be engaging, imaginative and culturally inclusive, led by trained youth workers who create a warm and supportive environment.
Who the Programme Supports
CR8 & Play – South Hub is ideal for:
Children aged 7 to 14
Young people from newcomer, minority ethnic and multicultural families
Children who benefit from hands-on creative activities
Those who need structured after-school support in a safe place
Young people who want to build friendships and confidence
Families looking for a positive, welcoming community hub
The programme is open to all backgrounds and abilities.
What Happens at CR8 & Play – South Hub
Creative Arts & Crafts
Drawing, painting, collage, clay, badge-making, design projects and themed creative activities that encourage imagination and expression.
Group Games & Team Challenges
Fun indoor activities, icebreakers and team games that help build confidence, teamwork and social skills.
STEM-Inspired Learning Through Play
Simple experiments, building exercises, puzzles and hands-on creative challenges to spark curiosity.
Cultural Learning & Storytelling
Sessions where children share traditions, stories and experiences from their backgrounds, fostering respect and intercultural understanding.
Emotional Wellbeing Support
Reflection activities, feelings games and confidence-building exercises guided by youth workers.
Seasonal and Celebration Days
Festive arts, themed sessions, cultural holidays and youth-led celebration events throughout the year.
Supervised Free Play
Relaxed time where young people can enjoy board games, toys, reading and socialising in a safe and friendly space.
Our Approach at the South Hub
CR8 & Play is grounded in youth-work values that shape everything we do:
Child-led creativity – young people co-design activities based on their interests
Play as learning – understanding that play builds essential life skills
Cultural inclusion – celebrating the diversity of every child and family
Positive relationships – youth workers build trust, provide support and encourage participation
Holistic development – integrating creativity, wellbeing, learning and social skills
Safe and supportive environment – safeguarding and emotional safety are always prioritised
The South Hub is a place where young people feel heard, valued and free to be themselves.
Why CR8 & Play Matters
Children who attend CR8 & Play often experience:
Increased confidence and self-expression
Better communication skills
Stronger friendships and peer relationships
Improved emotional regulation and wellbeing
More creativity and problem-solving skills
A greater sense of belonging in their community
For many families, the South Hub is a trusted and supportive space where their children can learn, grow and feel at home.
How to Register
Parents and guardians can reach out to the South Hub to register their child or ask for more information.
- South Hub Location: Diverse Youth NI – South Belfast
- Email: info@diverseyouthni.com
Spaces are limited to keep sessions safe and engaging.