A PARTLY derelict property has been transformed into a fully furnished overnight base, offering young people with challenging home lives a safe haven.

The ‘Crash Pad’, in Little Germany, is owned by the Cinderella Club, which raises funds for underprivileged children, providing things other youngsters take for granted - such as treats and school trips and uniforms.

The overnight facility will be available for one or two young people of school age to stay in for up to two nights, with youth workers. The idea is for youngsters to take time out and enjoy home comforts. Organisations working with young people, such as social services, youth groups, schools and Scout and Guide packs, are invited to use the property, for free, on approval by the Cinderella Club.

The 18-month renovation, costing £350,000, has involved structural work, including a new roof, and installing a lift. The four-storey Victorian property has been decorated with a bright, contemporary look. The fitted kitchen will be stocked with food, and there’s a spacious open-plan dining area and lounge. Two bedrooms each have a TV and desk, and there are two more rooms for youth workers on the top floor. The basement has been converted into a games room with table tennis and pool tables, which have been donated along with some furniture. Students at Shipley College are fundraising for books and games.

Established in 1890, the Cinderella Club ran a holiday home for Bradford children at Hest Bank near Morecambe, from 1908 to 1979. Club chairman Terry Pearson, project manager of the Crash Pad renovation, went to Hest Bank as a child and says the Crash Pad is designed to provide a similar experience. “I have great memories of Hest Bank, as many other Bradford people have. I was from Holme Wood, we were a poor family and Hest Bank gave me a holiday by the sea. I loved it,” said Terry. “The memories have stayed with me for life. That’s why I’m so passionate about this project. I want other children to have that kind of experience too.

“The Crash Pad is a break from home, in a nice, comfortable environment. Some children have chaotic home lives for various reasons; their parents may misuse drugs or alcohol, they may be young carers, or from a family in poverty. This is a safe place to relax, watch TV, or just talk. It will stay with them.

“It’s also aspirational; showing young people that they too can have a nice place to live. A lot of care has gone into this renovation, down to the last detail, to create a ‘Wow factor’.”

Bradford Cinderella Club, which celebrates its 130th anniversary this year, will hold an open day at the Crash Pad on Saturday, February 22.