Bentley helps to steer the future of Crewe’s young people

Leading luxury car manufacturer, Bentley, has shown its support of Crewe’s young people, by becoming a Founder Patron of The Dome Youth Zone.  

Joining a roster of other businesses and philanthropists, Bentley will contribute to the charity’s annual running costs. This funding will enable The Dome Youth Zone to offer first class facilities, fresh opportunities and dedicated support for thousands of local young people.   

Opening in 2026, The Dome Youth Zone will be an independent charity with a private sector-led board. It will be part of our growing Network of 15 Youth Zones nationwide, supporting more than 55,000 young people annually. Youth Zones are open to young people aged between eight and 19 (up to 25 for those with additional needs), seven days a week, for just £5 annual membership and 50p a visit. Young people who sign up will have access to an indoor climbing wall, four court sports hall, training kitchen, music room with a recording studio, fully equipped gym, boxing suite, dance and drama studio, 3G kick pitch, arts and crafts room, and enterprise and employability suite.  

In addition to these incredible facilities, trained youth workers and dedicated volunteers will be available seven days a week to offer guidance and holistic support, to help the area’s young people to thrive. The Dome will also benefit the wider community and create permanent full and part-time jobs, as well as many volunteering opportunities.   

Bentley is at the forefront of luxury car design. With a legacy of performance and innovation, it is focused on shaping the future of driving with sustainable, high-performance vehicles, all while staying true to its iconic heritage. 

Based at Pyms lane since 1938, Bentley is one of the biggest employers in Crewe, with over 4000 employees. They have a rich history of supporting local communities and young people, co-founding Crewe University Technical College and engaging with numerous schools and colleges, nurturing talent through work experience placements and apprenticeships. Included in its support of The Dome Youth Zone is the aim to educate and upskill young people, introducing them to the automotive industry and the opportunities it offers.   

When asked about the new partnership with The Dome Youth Zone, Sally Hepton, Director of Government Relations and Sustainable Luxury, said:

“At Bentley, we are passionate about inspiring and investing in future generations. Becoming a Founder Patron of The Dome Youth Zone is a natural extension of our commitment to empowering young people in our community. We believe that access to high-quality spaces, guidance, and opportunities can transform lives, and we are proud to support The Dome in making that a reality.” 

Stuart Manifould, The Dome Youth Zone CEO, said:

“To have a prestigious brand like Bentley supporting The Dome is wonderful. Their generosity will help ensure Crewe’s young people get the opportunity to explore their passion and potential.” 

Commenting on the partnership, The Dome Youth Zone Chair, Graham Ramsbottom said:

“I’m thrilled to welcome Bentley as a Founder Patron. Bentley does some fantastic work within the local community, I am so appreciative that they have chosen to support The Dome Youth Zone, enabling us to make a long-lasting impact on young people’s lives.” 

As with all OnSide’s Youth Zones, The Dome has a Young People’s Development Group – which is a group of local young people who have engaged with the Youth Zone since its announcement, and – supported by dedicated youth workers – play a key role in shaping the Youth Zone’s future. Currently they are sharing their ideas on the design of the site’s hoardings, to get the community excited about the Youth Zone, and are also taking part in regular music workshops.   

We are delivering The Dome Youth Zone in partnership with Cheshire East Council and supported by several businesses and philanthropists. The Founder Patron campaign aims to achieve long-term sustainability, to ensure The Dome Youth Zone will be an asset to the community, transforming young people’s lives for generations to come.  

We need support from partners like Bentley to ensure that the doors of The Dome open to a first class offering. If you would like to support young people living in Cheshire East, please contact: Ellen.Birchenough@onsideyouthzones.org