The Salvation
Army Community Centre was opened in May 1990.
It has become a drop-in centre for a wide range of people - of all ages and from
all backgrounds - and covers a variety of situations. From those who want a quiet
and comfortable place to read (or catch up on correspondence) with a cup of coffee
- to busy people who want a good English breakfast to start their day - to people
who need a listening ear for the vast range of difficulties they find themselves
in. It is a centre for the elderly and the vulnerable (i.e. those with learning
difficulties) who want company - especially to share a meal with. We have excellent
access and facilities for the disabled and for children, so no customer feels they
are a burden. We cover a vast area of needs, with counselling available if more
is needed than "tea & sympathy". We provide food parcels for families in financial
difficulties, help for people needing detox. units, advice on requests concerning
our family tracing service and generally do our best to guide people to areas where
their situation can be best helped.
Don't be fooled into thinking this is a sombre place - there is a lot of fun - and
friendship is the key word. People who come into the centre find themselves returning
regularly.
Sally Ann's Cafe is open to the general public, serving a wide selection of home-cooked
meals - from Full English Breakfast to Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips to Curry
and Rice, as well as salads, toasted sandwiches etc. Individually cooked to order,
Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 1:45pm (and open for snacks until 3:00pm). Again, there
is no age limit and we have special rates for children (only £1.50 per meal) and
for senior citizens.
We also let out our sports hall to individual groups for badminton during the day
and to private groups, such as Tai Chi, during the evenings. We also let out the
lounge to groups needing a venue for meetings.
For information on any of the above, contact Christine Pearce (Centre Manager) on
(01223) 367633 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, or just "drop in" between
9am and 3pm on those days.