New Community The Base II officially opens in Leyland

Key Unlocking Futures and the Group have now the finished renovating two unused shops to make way for the new centre on Broadfield Drive in Leyland.

The opening event was attended by local residents and organisations, all of whom already use or support the original community centre, The Base I, which is located only four doors down from the new facility.

The Base I has been running since 2018 and has engaged with over 500 families, addressing food poverty and social isolation. Following a consultation with local residents, it was decided that a larger space would enable even more residents to access the centre and enhance its existing services and support.

The Base II's official opening was a huge success, with local resident, Lou, saying: "It has been great to see so many people turn up to the opening and hear how excited they are that it's now finished.

"The centre has been a saviour for me, and I wanted to give something back to my community, so I'm now starting to volunteer here three days a week and I'm really enjoying it."

Activities available at the new centre will include providing a larger community café and shop, a laundry facility to alleviate the financial burden of energy costs, a larger kitchen space to support eating and cooking sessions, and a hub where locals can drop in and socialise with their neighbours.

Ursula Patten, Director of Key Unlocking Futures, who will be managing the centre, said: "I would like to thank everyone for their support in helping to deliver The Base II. I would especially like to thank Andrea, our Youth and Community Worker whose passion, energy, and determination, along with our volunteers and residents, have helped bring this centre to life and continue to make a positive impact on the local community.

"This year will be our 30th anniversary and opening The Base II is a great start to celebrating our work with the local community."

The Group, has provided project management and funding for the new community centre along with investment made by South Ribble Borough Council, The Lancashire Environmental Fund, Key Unlocking Futures and Community Foundation Lancashire.

The 1st of April 2024 will also be Progress Housing Group's 30th anniversary since its formation in 1994 as the New Progress Housing Association. To commemorate this significant milestone, we will be sharing some of the Group's highlights and achievements and tenants' and colleagues' stories.

Rosie's Room at The Base II is a room for people to spend some quiet time or receive counselling in. It was named in honour of a former family therapist and mediator for Key Unlocking Futures. Rosie recently retired from Key after supporting hundreds of young people and families in crisis. 

Come and join our two new community events in March:

• The Base on Broadfield Roadshow - Friday 15 March, 10am until 4pm

The Base, Broadfield Drive, Leyland

Would you like to know more about local servies and support available in our community?

Would you like to share your ideas about what you'd like to see happening at The Base?

Come and chat to our team. Free refreshments available. 

• The Base on Broadfield Family Fun Day - Saturday 16 March, 10am until 4pm

The Base, Broadfield Drive, Leyland

We have a bouncy castle, climing wall, live entertainment, a hair, make up and nail bar, pizza making, face painting and bingo.

All free.