What began as a simple idea to create a safe place for young people after school has grown into one of Brighton’s most successful community initiatives, with the Bridgewater Youth Night Café becoming a place where young people feel they belong.

Supported through the Tasmanian Government’s Youth Justice Early Intervention Initiative, the Night Café is held every Wednesday afternoon at the Brighton Civic Centre, welcoming more than 30 young people and their families for free activities including hip hop, basketball, creative workshops, shared meals and opportunities to connect with friends and trusted adults.

Founded by local resident Ann Sutcliffe in 2025, the Night Café was created to provide local young people with a positive, welcoming space to spend time after school. With support from Brighton Council, the Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP) and the Brighton Youth Action Group, the community-led initiative has continued to grow, attracting new partners, volunteers and activities.

“The Night Café has always been about creating a space where young people know they’re welcome,” Ms Sutcliffe said. “When young people feel like a place belongs to them, they look after it and each other. Watching their confidence grow, seeing families connect and hearing the laughter every week reminds us why this matters.”

Local schools have reported positive outcomes, including reduced bullying among students who attend the program, while increasing numbers of parents are now choosing to stay and participate alongside their children, strengthening connections across the community.

One local parent said the Night Café had become an important part of family life.

“The Night Café has given our kids somewhere they genuinely want to be. Instead of worrying about where they are after school, we know they’re somewhere safe, making friends, learning new skills and surrounded by adults who care. It’s making a real difference for our whole community.”

Funding through the Youth Justice Early Intervention Initiative has supported volunteer training, food and activities identified by the community as essential to creating a welcoming environment. The program continues to evolve, with local organisations delivering workshops, residents donating equipment and young people helping shape future activities.

Each Wednesday afternoon, the Brighton Civic Centre fills with conversation, creativity and laughter as young people arrive knowing they have a place where they are accepted, supported and encouraged to thrive. The success of the Night Café demonstrates how community-led, place-based initiatives can create lasting change by giving young people opportunities to build friendships, develop confidence and strengthen their connection to their community.