The Basement Trust was established as a result of some research into the needs of young people in Ross on Wye. A group of interested people representing organisations in the town met to discuss the possibility of opening a youth facility. The young people were surveyed and a comprehensive report published. As a result, the first premises to be used as a centre for young people was found – the building now known as Tudor Sweets and a youth worker employed to run the project. The group met in the basement, hence the choice of name.

Over time, the youth sessions moved from rented premises to the then County Council owned Youth Centre known as the ‘YZone’ in Hill Street. Operating in partnership with Herefordshire Youth Services, the Trust provided additional funding and volunteer support for leisure time activities run by the County Council youth workers. The County authorities described the partnership as ‘the gold standard’ of how to deliver youth work and support. 

When Youth Services were closed, the Basement Trust continued to offer evening sessions to young people until the building changed ownership. It was purchased by Ross Baptist

Church for community use and the building name changed to ‘The Venue’. Since that time the youth group has continued to adapt to meet the needs of young people, allowing them to have a safe place to meet, socialise and be supported by youth workers as positive role models.