The Weir Link

Who we are

After over five years of community consultation, planning and fundraising, a purpose built, well-designed building was opened in June 2008, replacing a derelict laundry not used as a community centre since 1974. The Weir Link Community and Children’s Centre was established and opened for business in September 2008. 

From the start, The Weir Link has aimed to be far more than just a building. It exists to serve and build the wider community, crossing cultural and age divides. It is about the support of the family in its widest possible definition. It is about inclusion and a welcome for those who feel at the margins of society. It is about building up individuals as well as the wider community, supporting and training in new skills; it is about a place where everyone will be valued and encouraged and where the diversity of the local community will be cherished and enjoyed.

The building is symbolic of the hopes of the community, providing a new start and a place of warm welcome. It is a place where past frustrations and discouragement are being turned into a realisation that positive change is possible both for the individual and community. The Weir Link is about people first and foremost. In providing the focus for renewal, the project is about enhancing and changing people’s lives; it is about celebrating the communities that exist in this area and forging new links. In building a symbol of hope The Weir Link is making the changes that lead to a more inclusive, safer and stronger community.

The Weir Link aims to be a vibrant focal point and community facility, providing a range of activities and serving to link all sections of the community, including different age, ethnic and faith groups. It aims to be financially sustainable and to provide a venue for the following activities:

 ·      Education and training

·       Health and community safety workshops

·       Art / Craft workshops and exhibitions

·       After school/holiday clubs/youth activities

·       Local housing/councillor/MP/advice surgeries

·       Meeting place for older people

·       Community space for hire e.g. children’s parties, rehearsals / meetings

Our culture and values

The Weir Link aims to be a catalyst for change by offering a range of educational, training, childcare and social support for local residents in line with the hopes and aspirations identified in the consultative process leading up to the centre opening.  We especially target those who are in the greatest need – those on low income, unemployed, not having English as a first language, returning to work, or who have young families.  At the same time it places the whole community at its heart, and emphasises that the door is always open and everyone is welcome.