GREENSTEAD COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

The Greenstead Community Association is a registered UK charity (Charity number 1082081) dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents and visitors to the Greenstead Estate, a deprived ward in Colchester. It operates the Greenstead Community Centre, a vibrant hub for local activities, services, and social events.

History

The association was founded in the 1990s by a group of Greenstead residents who identified the need for a community centre where local people could meet and where organizations could offer services and activities. After registering as a charity, they conducted a ‘Planning for Real’ consultation to gather the community’s needs and wishes, which informed the design of their community centre.

In 2001, the association successfully secured £375,000 in funding from the Community Fund, alongside additional financial support from the New Opportunities Fund, Single Regeneration Bid, Colchester Borough Council, and Sure Start Colchester. The land for the centre was leased from the council at the site of a former petrol station located centrally within the estate.

Activities and Services

The Greenstead Community Centre provides a welcoming and accessible space for various local groups and community activities, catering to a broad demographic including children, young people, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and minority ethnic communities. The centre hosts social events, tea and coffee mornings, workshops, and parties, often providing catering services as well.

The facility includes a large main hall licensed for up to 180 people, suitable for birthdays, family gatherings, and conferences, alongside smaller meeting rooms ideal for local groups or more intimate events. The centre is wheelchair-friendly and offers free parking.

Community Impact

The association focuses on fostering community cohesion and support by delivering workshops on topics such as education, mental health, parenting, cultural diversity, and advocacy. It actively collaborates with partners to support BAME women and other vulnerable groups in the Colchester area.

The Greenstead Community Association relies heavily on income generated through hall hire and community events to remain self-sufficient and independent from council control. It plays a crucial role in providing a dynamic and accessible facility that serves as the heart of the Greenstead community.

Note: This article is based on publicly available information from the Charity Commission and the Greenstead Community Centre website.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/3973309 [2] https://www.greensteadcommunitycentre.org.uk/about/ [3] https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/charity/greenstead-community-association [4] https://www.greensteadcommunitycentre.org.uk [5] https://www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk/community-spotlight/