In 1960, Dr Wyllie, the clubs
founder sadly died.
A local authority re-development programmed had commenced.
It was to include the demolition of local housing and, eventually,
the compulsory purchase by local authority of the Waterloo
Road premises. Many families were re-housed in other areas
and this effected membership figures for a while.
In
response Hunslet Boys Club took on a wider community role, positive workers links
were developed with allied agencies, schools and employers.
The Club shared its strengths in joint projects such as Intermediate
Treatment for Young Offenders and Duke of Edinburgh award
activities. There was a steady intake of boys on referral
from Social Services and the probation Service.
Practical
work placements were an important feature of the training
and the Commonwealth Exchange Bureau, the NABC and other educational
institutions regarded Hunslet Boys Club as an ideal student
placement. The environment was right, the organisation and
club structure was of the highest order, and the philosophy
and leadership were an impeccable example. The club was thriving.
One
member produced a hand carved centerpiece for the Kirby Chapel.
It was an exquisite wooden sculpture of a pair of hands holding
an open bible. The arts members won national awards for painting
and drawing, photography, metal work, woodwork and marquetry.
One painting being chosen for exhibit in the Edinburgh Arts
Festival and NABC Royal Festival Hall Show. Cookery was still
flourishing and in a tradition dating back to the war years
produce from the members gardening project was distributed
to the local needy, there was a genuine commitment to helping
others. It was a way of encouraging awareness of social problems,
the plight of the less fortunate.
Members were also involved with
a variety of other good causes, the Lord Mayor's Charity Appeal.
Seacroft Hospital, Oxfam relief and helping other charities
to raise funds. This was an opportunity to show off with spectacular
gym displays and shows by adhoc concert parties.
By
the mid 1960's youth workers were grappling with the concept
of social education with simple aims:
Helping the young
to form mutually satisfying relationships.
Greater awareness of self - values, aptitudes
Understand the roles that they play and anticipate playing
Learn about their social and physical environment.
Development of self-esteem
Hunslet had taken it on
board, confident that the aims were implicit in good youth
work practice. Social education within the club was strongly
reinforced by the experience, skills and care of voluntary
adults from all walks of life.
The re-development project of
Hunslet meant that major changes to the landscape were in
progress; high-rise flats and open green spaces were replacing
the old back-to-back houses. The club set about finding a
new venue. The City Planning Department provided a suitable
freehold site. The local authority compulsory purchase order
on the Waterloo Road premises realized £90,000 towards
a new purpose built centre. This left a shortfall of £20,000
and an appeal to local business and industry was launched.