Valls' Espai Jove has launched its new programme of activities, workshops, and services this September, targeting young people aged 12 to 29. The initiative aims to offer a space for meeting, participation, and learning that addresses the interests and needs of the city's youth, according to Valls officials. This season's programme runs from September until 23 December, featuring a wide range of free activities.
The programme includes cultural, educational, and leisure proposals. Beyond scheduled events, Espai Jove provides ongoing information and advice services covering various areas of interest to young people.
These permanent services include a Youth Information Point for general enquiries, job search support, academic guidance, and assistance with international mobility. There are also dedicated sessions for health and emotional well-being, housing advice, and equality support for women and LGBTQ+ individuals. These services are delivered in collaboration with various municipal departments and projects, including Ocell de Foc, the Equality and Feminisms Department, the Education and Linguistic Policy Department, the Municipal Housing Office, Vallsgenera, the Alt Camp Youth Office, and La Bastida Cooperative.
New Initiatives and Participation
To raise awareness of the Espai Jove, a new initiative called "Welcome to Youth" will be introduced to third-year ESO students in Valls' secondary schools. Students will receive a pack with materials and information about the services offered at the centre.
October will see the start of the Valls Youth Council, or Taula Jove, designed to encourage active participation from young people in improving their local community. This project is part of the Erasmus+ Youth Participation Activities programme and will conclude with a trip to Bologna, Italy, where participants will meet other young people involved in similar projects. An information session for the Taula Jove will be held at Espai Jove on 30 September at 19:00; prior registration is required.
Featured Activities and Competitions
The current programme, running until 23 December, includes several free activities. Among them is the art exhibition "At the back on the right" by local artist Meritxell Garriga. There is also "Castaween", a festive event combining the Castanyada and Halloween, featuring informal gatherings to decorate the space, a cooking workshop, and an escape room challenge to find an antidote to an alien invasion.
Following last year's success, a second edition of the photography competition for 25N, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, will take place. This competition aims to engage young people aged 14 to 29 in actions to prevent or reduce gender-based violence. Submissions will be accepted via email between 1 and 24 October. All submitted photographs will be displayed in an exhibition at Espai Jove from 11 to 28 November, with prizes awarded to winners on 25 November.
Study Space and Future Plans
The Espai Jove also reintroduces its study room from 17 September, providing a space for individual study and group work. This service is available on Wednesdays from 16:00 to 19:00 and will have extended hours during exam periods. VallsJove officials emphasised that this renewed focus on youth activities aims to strengthen Espai Jove's role as a key resource for all young people in the city. The offerings respond to requests and suggestions made by young people themselves during participatory processes for the Local Youth Plan and the Espai Jove's usage and operation plan.
Pre-registration is required for all activities to manage capacity. Registrations can be completed at Espai Jove (Plaça de les Escudelles, 5A) from Tuesday to Thursday (10:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 19:00), via email, by calling 977609849, or by WhatsApp on 630476151. Registrations are open until the day of the activity or until all places are filled.
