A long-established community hub has “smartened up” its offering to would-be users thanks to a £5,000 funding boost.
Framwellgate Moor Community Centre, on the outskirts of Durham, has been beset by rising costs while under threat of losing out on potential bookings due to advancing technology.
But a low-tech solution has been provided for the high-tech problem thanks to the Durham City Freemen.
Part of the core business of the community charity, launched in the late 1960s, is the provision of “wellbeing” activities for local people struggling with loneliness, mental health issues and social isolation.
In an average week, a further 500 to 1,000 people pass through its doors to take up education, learning, leisure, sport, fitness and cultural activities offered by a range of approved organisations.
Their hiring of the three main halls and four meeting rooms provides vital income for the centre.
But with a part-time staff of four, supported by six volunteers, the centre is also regularly used for coffee mornings, while other highlights include a Christmas Fayre and refreshments following the local Remembrance Day Parade.
Secretary Peter Sykes, of Framwellgate Moor Community Association, said: “Over the past few months, it has been discouraging to find we are missing out on potential hall hirings because we are unable to offer those inquiring the latest technology needed to support their work.
“This is almost entirely down to the inflexibility of our existing equipment, and the same problem has also affected receipt of grants for specific projects.”
The solution, provided by the £5,000 gift from the freemen’s charitable trust, covers the cost of new mobile smart screen technology, the installation of electronic sockets in every hall and room and secure storage for the equipment.
Read next ... more Durham City stories from The Northern Echo, by clicking here
- Durham City Freemen Charitable Trust's £15,000 hospice boost
- Durham City Freemen backs the work of prostate support group
- Durham City Freemen help Northumbrian Blood Bikes charity
“What we will now have at our disposal is a lasting facility which will significantly improve the centre’s attractiveness to current and potential users,” said Mr Sykes.
“We are immensely grateful to the freemen, and their generosity will be marked with a plaque displayed permanently in our premises,” he added.
Eric Bulmer, chairman of the charitable trust, said: “We are delighted to support a dedicated group of volunteers who are providing a wonderful environment in which the local community can benefit greatly from a wide range of activities.”
Share