Downside Community Centre Bags Big Lottery Boost!
Downside Community Centre in Newport, Isle of Wight, has just scored a massive cash injection from the National Lottery Community Fund. The trustees of Pan Together, who run the centre, have secured a hefty grant to guarantee the hub’s future and help it flourish for years to come.
Community Hub Set for a Bright Future
Since its founding in 2007 and becoming a registered charity in 2018, Pan Together has grown into a vibrant heart of the local community. The new funding means they can now hire a dedicated community centre manager to take things up a notch.
Moving on from their humble beginnings in portakabins behind the old Downside Middle School back in 2016, the centre now shares a purpose-built space alongside Barton Primary School and East Newport Family Centre — all under one roof in the Pan Community Hub.
Services That Make a Real Difference
From the ever-popular Isobel Community Café to adult learning classes, children’s yoga, youth clubs, and ‘In Stitches’ craft sessions, the centre buzzes with activity. Other highlights include the Older Voices forum, Cooking on a Budget courses, and lively quiz and curry nights.
The centre also offers a vital drop-in information and guidance session, helping locals tackle a range of issues face to face.
Cheers to the Team and Lottery Support
Lead trustee Dave Logan said, “I am absolutely delighted. Huge thanks to Debbie Yates and everyone who worked tirelessly to secure this grant. Now it’s time for all of us to make the most of this golden opportunity.”
Debbie Yates, the grant application guru, added, “After years with Pan, I’m thrilled our hard work paid off. The services we provide are life-changing and needed more than ever. Huge thanks to Helen Miller from the National Lottery for all her support — we couldn’t have done it without her.”
Kate Concannon, former IW Council Local Area Coordinator and Pan trustee, said, “It’s fantastic the volunteers’ efforts are backed for the next three years. Exciting times lie ahead!”
Gayna Ryan, manager of Isobel Café, chimed in, “This grant secures the future for both the Community Centre and Café. We’re buzzing to remain Pan’s vibrant community hub.”
Pan Together chair Laura Byrne gushed, “I’m over the moon! We’ve worked so hard through the tough times. Now we can promise a brighter future for the whole Pan community. Thanks to the National Lottery and everyone who plays — and a massive shout-out to Debbie Yates and the amazing Pan Together team.”
Volunteer Cara Woodford summed it up best: “Amazing news! Having three years of security means the world to us.”
With this vital funding secured, Downside Community Centre looks set to keep being a lifeline and hotspot for Pan locals—watch this space!
