A popular community hub in Swanage has been transformed following a £25,000 donation made by a local grant-giving charity that supports worthy causes across east Dorset, Talbot Village Trust.

Run by the Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust (SPDT), The Centre on Chapel Lane was in urgent need of restorative work to its floor and lighting and required new toilet facilities to ensure its important role as a social hub in the heart of the community continues. 

The Centre hosts an abundance of groups covering youth, arts, training and music events. One group benefitting from the refurbished facility is the Explorers Childcare Group and this provider of nursery care, breakfast and after school clubs and holiday clubs now accommodates up to 70 pre-school children together with 25 staff in a safe and nurturing environment.

On the works carried out Natasha Ramsey, Manager of Explorers Childcare Group, said: “The refurbished space, including the new floor and toilets, has provided a safe and inviting environment for children aged 3 months to 11 years, enabling us to provide high-quality affordable childcare to a large number of families in the local community.

“Children who attend high-quality childcare in the early years will develop improved social, emotional and academic abilities and achieve higher outcomes at school. Having a safe and suitable environment such as The Centre is having a positive impact on children in the local area to gain the skills and abilities necessary for lifelong learning and independence.” 

Bob Foster, chair of the Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust, added: “SPDT was set up as a charity in 2015, with the aim of supporting the community of Swanage and surrounding villages by protecting and enhancing both local services and property assets for community use. We operate a sustainable property model to ensure that property continues to be available in the long term.

“We are extremely grateful for the generosity of Talbot Village Trust. With limited funding available from local and statutory authorities, donations such as this are essential in maintaining services and property assets for the community.”

Caroline Cooban, Chief Executive Officer at east Dorset based grant-giving charity Talbot Village Trust, commented: “We understand just how significant community spaces like The Centre in Swanage can be. The Trust was delighted to support the refurbishment project, to ensure the building can continue to be enjoyed by the public for essential events, activities, and social gatherings for many years to come.”

Talbot Village Trust awards up to £1million every year, supporting various causes to youth organisations, education groups and community-focused projects. The charity is encouraging further local causes to apply for funding ahead of its next application deadline on 31st January.

For more information visit www.talbotvillagetrust.org