What could you get out of a community hub?
You might know about Café Connect and Kingswell Community Café, two hubs that we run in Bedford. They are spaces for people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds to come together to socialise, join in with activities and find support, if and when needed.
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“It’s good to see that all this hard work pays off”
You might not know that the hubs couldn’t run without a team of dedicated volunteers. As well as making sure visitors have a warm space, food and activities to enjoy, the team tell us they get a lot out of the experience personally. We’ve had a chat with Yasmin and Roma, who volunteer at Café Connect to find out more.
“Giving is so much greater than receiving and I think that kind of sums it all up. You know, just to see everyone’s faces - they look forward to the free food, the chit chat, the communication, the socialising and all that. It’s good to see that all this hard work pays off. I've been doing it from when the hub began, and I feel proud. I hope I can continue for as long as it runs.”
Yasmin, Kitchen Volunteer
“People need somewhere to congregate socially so they can be together. It’s very valuable and if they can learn something new – ask a question to Citizens Advice for example – it becomes an important part of the community. I think it’s great that the community centre is used in this way.”
Roma, front desk volunteer
Thank you to everyone that volunteers to make the community hubs happen. If you’re interested in helping, or would like to come along as a visitor, please pop along, you’ll be very welcome. Please email communityengagement@bpha.org.uk with any questions.
Kingswell community catch-up
Every Tuesday, 9am - 12noon Kingsbrook Children’s Centre Canvin Way, Bedford MK42 0HL.
Café Connect
Alternate Wednesdays (term-time), 12.15pm – 2.15pm Queens Park Community Centre 52 Marlborough Road, Bedford MK40 4LF.