National Lottery Boost Secures Future for Pan Together Community Centre
Big news for Newport’s Pan community! Pan Together trustees have bagged a major grant from the National Lottery Community Fund. This cash injection guarantees the future of Downside Community Centre on the Isle of Wight, helping it stay open and thriving for years to come.
From Humble Beginnings to Community Powerhouse
Pan Together started back in 2007 and became an official charity in 2018. The group runs the Downside Community Centre, which in 2016 moved out of portakabins into a spanking new community hub building alongside Barton Primary School and the East Newport Family Centre.
The centre is already packed with activities – from adult learning and children’s yoga to a youth club and the popular ‘In Stitches’ craft session. There’s even a quiz and curry night to spice things up!
A Community Manager on the Horizon
The Lottery grant will allow Pan Together to hire a dedicated community centre manager. Their job? To take the centre’s role to the next level and expand its services, making it the beating heart of Pan.
Voices from Pan Together
Dave Logan, Lead Trustee: “I’m absolutely delighted. Huge thanks to Debbie Yates and everyone who worked tirelessly to secure this funding. Now it’s down to all of us to make the most of this amazing opportunity.”
Debbie Yates, Grant Application Lead: “It’s fantastic news after all these years of hard work. Pan Together’s services truly change lives and are needed more than ever. Thanks to Helen Miller from the Lottery Fund for her support throughout.”
Kate Concannon, Former IW Council Coordinator & Trustee: “Pleased the volunteers’ hard work is supported for the next three years. Exciting times ahead for Pan’s community centre!”
Gayna Ryan, Isobel Café Manager: “Wonderful news! This grant secures a bright future for the café and community hub.”
Laura Byrne, Chair of Pan Together: “Over the moon! We battled through tough times but now the future looks bright. Thanks to the National Lottery and everyone involved.”
Cara Woodford, Volunteer: “Amazing news for us all. Having financial security for the next three years means a lot.”
What’s Next?
- Hiring a community centre manager to grow and enhance services
- Expanding existing programs like adult learning, kids yoga, youth clubs, and more
- Continuing the success of the Isobel Community Café
- Building a stronger, more connected Pan community hub
With National Lottery backing, Downside Community Centre is set to remain the vibrant heart of Pan, Isle of Wight, for many years to come.
