Greenbank Community Centre relaunch promises exciting benefits for community
A large gathering of excited local people met to launch the Greenbank Community Centre with a new name and exciting plans for the future, on Thursday 26 June. The centre in Plymouth, formerly Onward House, is owned by Westward and we are delighted to be working in partnership with the Mutley Greenbank Trust (MGT) who now manage it.
The room was filled with more than 80 excited local people – many of them young people - including staff and volunteers, who worked hard to make the event such a success. Trish Bennett opened the event by talking about how MGT has existed since 2001 and how it reflects the roots of the area and the people it serves. She said:
“It takes a community to raise a child. We are proud to support this diverse community. Our children are our future.”
MGT believe that everyone in the community should be able to live a life that is secure and fulfilling. Their mission is to reduce poverty, improve the environment, challenge inequality, and tackle isolation. The centre makes a vital difference to the community by offering cookery, art, dance, a range of children’s sessions, event room hire, drop-in sessions to connect people in groups and even day trips.
Councillor Steve Ricketts (Chair of MGT) and Councillor Charlotte Holloway were present as key stakeholders. A short presentation outlined the business plan to continue to secure more funding to grow the range of activities ever more.
Their work to build a stronger, more vibrant community in which everyone is included and feels welcome is entirely in keeping with the values at the heart of Westward. Our values include to actively listen, work in partnership and do what we say we will; as well as to show integrity by being fair, inclusive and respectful. As Westward celebrates its 60th anniversary of providing affordable housing and services, it was a moment to treasure to partner this organisation.
Trish Bennett closed with a welcoming, ‘The kettle is always on here.” A great cheer went up when the ribbon was cut.
This essential community hub will clearly go from strength to strength. Huge thanks go out from Mutley Greenbank Trust to all residents of Greenbank, local councillors, police team and partner organisations. Westward are delighted to work with this wonderful organisation at the heart of the community.