Sandwell youth centre gets Children in Need celebrity makeover

A youth centre in West Bromwich has been given a star-studded makeover during a Children in Need special of the BBC’s Interior Design Masters

Alan Carr was joined by six famous faces, who donned overalls and cracked open paint cans as they competed to create the best designs.

The show was focused on Sandwell Young Carers Project (SYCP), a Children in Need funded project which supports young people who have caring responsibilities for a dependent family member.

Chief executive of the centre Tracey Hawkins said the children “deserve the very best”.

As part of the show, the celebrities gave a fresh look to a play room for five to 11 year olds, a games room for the 12 to 18 year olds, an art room, a music room, a chill out space and a meeting space.

The building, in Bratt Street, provides a place for children who care for their loved ones to spend time away from home and unwind.

Comedian Jon Richardson teamed up with model and TV host Leomie Anderson during the show, while musician and actor Martin Kemp partnered with his wife, and well-known singer, Shirlie Kemp.

The final team featured comedian Darren Harriott and podcast host Joanne McNally.

During the show, Richardson helped create a chill out room.

“The effect that building will have on a generation of young people makes the world better,” he said.

“If you want to live in a better world then you start providing stuff like that for kids everywhere,” Richardson added.

Meanwhile Martin Kemp, who created a music room which was lauded as the best design on the show, said: “I’m on cloud nine – I wanted to make a room that was inspirational, aspirational.

“Music has done so much for me in my life, it’s just nice to give it to someone else.”

Following the makeover, Ms Hawkins said: “Providing care for someone does make you a special person.

“Making those rooms special has made them feel recognised and loved.

“They deserve the very best.

“This makeover is going to make such a huge difference to the children we support and I’m so excited for everyone to see it.”