Longlevens Community Centre

By Carena, Community Builder

When I first visited the community centre about one and a half years ago, it was known as the men’s drinking club. “A very unwelcoming and non-inclusive place.”

A new bar manager was appointed a few months before the first lockdown in 2020. They were always welcoming to everyone, I used to pop in regularly to have a chat with the bar staff and any other residents present.

During the lockdown the community centre had a wheelchair ramp installed and a enclosed lobby was built, making it more inclusive for residents.

After the lockdown had lifted, the community centre began opening Monday to Friday Mornings for tea and coffee.

“I help advertise via my Facebook page, WhatsApp and rang resident. Informing residents that finally there is somewhere to sit and have a coffee in Elmbridge and Longlevens. I use this centre as my bumping place for any residents who want to pop in, have a chat with me and should they need any connections or introductions or start something new, I can support them with these too.”

Most of the members have joined the Longlevens Community Centre because they get discounted food, and drinks. They also offer members discounts for various events throughout the year including, tribute acts and Christmas meals.

“Community centres give a belonging to residents, giving them an identity within that community”

A new member confided in me that they were nervous about coming along to meet a group at the community centre. It was there first venture out to meet others socially since his wife had passed away three years ago. They came into the Community Centre the day before and the bar manager recommended he come along to the Recycled Teenagers group. They have now become an active member of the group.

The community centre has become a key meeting point in the community, with groups meeting here to connect and socialise with others.

A small IT group from Elmbridge now meet here, helping and supporting people who want to learn how to use their smart phones and learn more about their laptops and notebooks. The parents and toddlers group now also meet here after their dancing group in the Hall.

The bar manager said to me that this is what being a community centre is all about whilst casting his eyes at the different groups meeting inside and connecting to one another.

The community centre offers local residents a safe and warm place to meet. Encouraging residents to connect and take part in various activities. This centre also offer opportunities for families with young children to spend quality time together by putting on special holiday activities such as BBQ’s and season events.