From Downing Street to Paston Farm: Protecting Community Spirit

Vicki Baker's recognition at 10 Downing Street highlights the value of community centres and the vital role they play in bringing people together across Peterborough.

From Downing Street to Paston Farm: Protecting Community Spirit

By Chris Elliott

Having moved to Peterborough almost two years ago, I initially felt completely lost, with no friends or family nearby. That changed when I discovered the Paston Farm Community Centre. Since then, I have watched its growth and the many activities it provides to bring people together.

It was therefore especially pleasing to learn that Vicki Baker, who runs the centre, was nominated and invited to attend a special event at 10 Downing Street.

A Celebration at 10 Downing Street

Vicki wrote:

“I was incredibly honoured to attend a reception at 10 Downing Street to celebrate Black History Month, having been nominated in recognition of my work within the community.

It was a real privilege to be invited to such an iconic place and to share the occasion with others who are making a difference in their communities.

Community Centres are for the people

So much of community work happens behind the scenes, often quietly and without recognition. Whether it’s creating opportunities, bringing people together or working to keep vital community spaces alive, it’s all about making a difference to the people around us.

To know that this work has been recognised at a national level is genuinely humbling and something I’m very proud of.

It was also lovely to meet the Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, shake his hand and have the opportunity to introduce myself, another memorable moment from a very special evening.

Group photograph from a Black History Month reception at 10 Downing Street featuring Vicki Baker – Picture courtesy of Simon Dawson

I’m passionate about what can be achieved when people come together for the benefit of their community, and I’ll never take for granted the opportunities to celebrate the difference that community spirit can make.

Thank you,

Vicki Baker”

What are community centres for?

Vicki’s recognition highlights the real value of community centres and the dedicated people who work tirelessly to bring others together. These places help create friendships, combat loneliness and provide opportunities for people to remain active and connected within their communities.

Against that backdrop, it is disappointing to learn that plans for the Dementia Resource Centre and the Alzheimer’s Society to move into Paston Farm Community Centre and its café appear likely to result in public access being limited largely to evenings and weekends.

Adding to those concerns are questions surrounding the future of the Copeland Centre in Bretton, which has played an important role in hosting community activities and events over the years.

At a time when increasing numbers of people live alone, have lost partners or simply seek companionship and friendship, community hubs are more important than ever. Volunteers can do remarkable work, but without accessible meeting places, many community activities simply cannot happen.

Without community centres, many people lose a valuable source of support, friendship and social contact.

Looking ahead, local authorities and organisations responsible for these facilities must ensure that community centres are used to their fullest potential. Equally important is providing managers and volunteers with the support they need to keep these spaces thriving.

For many people, these centres are far more than buildings. They are places where friendships are formed, support is found and communities come together.

If we truly value community spirit, we must do more than celebrate it. We must protect the places where it grows.

To read more of Paston Farm Community Centre click here