Investment in future generations: Bentley Motors becomes Founder Patron of The Dome, Crewe’s new youth hub

• Bentley Motors donates £25,000 to support The Dome Youth Zone, with plans for continued annual donations over four years
• As part of its Advancing Life Chances strategy, Bentley is dedicated to supporting young people and fostering long-term positive impact in Crewe and beyond 
• Bentley's manufacturing team handcrafted a unique plaque to commemorate the partnership, using the same veneer techniques as Bentley interiors

(Crewe, 28 February 2025) Bentley Motors has become a Founder Patron of The Dome Youth Zone, further strengthening its commitment to the local Crewe community. The company has donated £25,000 to The Dome Youth Zone, with plans to continue supporting the initiative through annual donations over four years. This investment will help provide state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated youth work support, and fresh opportunities for thousands of young people in Crewe.    

To mark the occasion, Sally Hepton, Director of Government Relations and Sustainable Luxury, and Abbie Brown, Community Investment Manager at Bentley, presented a handcrafted plaque to the Crewe Youth Zone team: Stuart Manifould, CEO, Ellen Birchenough, Senior Philanthropy Manager, and Hannah Gardiner, Philanthropy Manager. Meticulously created using Bentley’s world-renowned veneer techniques, the plaque serves as a symbol of the long-term partnership.
Sally Hepton from Bentley Motors, commented: 

“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, CEO at Crewe Youth Zone, added: “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.”

About The Dome Youth Zone

Crewe’s Youth Zone, known as ‘The Dome’ - a name chosen by local young people - is set to become a vibrant hub for the community. Opening in 2026, it will provide a safe, inspiring, and engaging space where young people can develop their skills and confidence. The Dome Youth Zone will offer over 20 activities per session, including a climbing wall, music studio, enterprise suite, sports hall, gym, and arts spaces. With skilled youth workers available seven days a week, The Dome will be a vital support system for local young people, helping them unlock their full potential.    

The Dome Youth Zone will be part of national youth charity OnSide’s growing network of 15 Youth Zones which span the country and collectively support over 55,000 young people annually. Sessions will be open to 8 to 19-year-olds (or up to 25 for those with additional needs) for just 50p per visit and £5 annual membership.

Bentley’s Commitment to Community Investment

Bentley Motors remains dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the local community through strategic investments and long-term partnerships. Community engagement is a core element of Bentley’s global mission and is embedded within its Beyond100+ strategy, reflecting the company’s ambition to be the most socially responsible luxury car brand.    

With a proud history of collaboration, Bentley has supported local communities for decades, particularly in Crewe and the surrounding Cheshire area. This commitment includes partnerships with educational institutions such as the Crewe Engineering & Design University Technical College (UTC), which helps equip young people with essential skills for the future.    

Bentley’s Advancing Life Chances (ALC) strategy is designed to support both people and the planet. Recognising the challenges faced by disadvantaged groups and the pressing need for environmental action, Bentley is committed to driving positive change at both local and systemic levels. The company focuses its community investment efforts on improving access to services, empowering individuals, and enhancing quality of life.    

In recent years, Bentley has significantly expanded its charitable contributions across the UK: In 2023, Bentley supported over 320 charitable donations and projects, marking a 150 per cent increase from the previous year. By 2024, this number had grown to 450 charitable initiatives, benefiting approximately 40,000 people nationwide. The company continues to strengthen its efforts through direct support for local organisations, funding for education and skills development, and initiatives aimed at fostering a more sustainable and inclusive future.    

Bentley’s long-standing commitment to Crewe is reflected in its role as a Founder Patron of The Dome, Crewe’s new Youth Zone. By investing in initiatives that provide young people with opportunities for personal and professional growth, Bentley reinforces its position as a leader in corporate responsibility and social sustainability.

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