CARDIGAN youth charity Area 43 has recently had its drop-in centre re-vamped in time to offer support and advice for school and college pupils with their exam results this summer.

The charity, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last year, has also launched two new websites - area43.co.uk will provide information on what Area 43 has to offer, and silver43.com will promote its own range of quality jewellery which has been created by young people who access the drop-in centre.

The whole building at Pont-y-cleifion has been updated by local craftsmen ensuring that Area 43 is a vibrant, modern-looking drop-in centre for those who need advice and support.

The website was also updated by a local company - Andy Mayer of Coast Web Solutions, Aberporth.

"I enjoy coming to Area 43 because I enjoy being creative. I like doing painting and I have enjoyed making jewellery, while being in a supportive environment. The staff always have a listening ear for any problems and they advise me and help me to make the right decisions on how to go forward,” said one of the centre users.

Area 43 will this season concentrate on its jewellery venture. Established six years ago, Silver43 sees a collection made by young people who are the hardest to reach in the community and has provided fresh creative and marketing opportunities during that time.

The social enterprise donates all its profits to the Area 43 Charity, and has over the years, allowed the young people to gain a business knowledge, setting them up for future opportunities.

Another young person said: “We spent a month learning how to make the jewellery that is all sterling silver and semi-precious stones. We played around with several designs before moving forward to the next process of actually making the jewellery.”

Carol Ashling, a youth support worker, said: “The young people were inspired by the nature in the area and they decided to base the range on the seashore, mountains, rivers and forests.

“Our aim has always been to be able to offer quality training and real jobs to young people for whom genuine opportunities are incredibly rare. This enterprise has enabled them to earn respect, move away from welfare benefits and encourage them to lead healthier lifestyles.”

Sally Jones, Area 43’s CEO added: “Our philosophy is to assist young people in developing self-esteem and a positive approach to their lives and their place in society. We provide a space where they can relate to their peer group and to adult role models who encourage them to participate in learning experiences and decision-making processes. Developing this jewellery range is just one scheme that is flowering at Area 43.

“We believe that the successful business not only benefits the young people who have made the jewellery, but all the young people who access the services that Area 43 offers both now and in the future.”

If you’re aged 16-25, whether you are getting exam results this summer or not, Area 43 is always happy to welcome new faces. To find out more, call 01239 614566 Monday to Friday.