Westminster unveils new mini community hubs to strengthen local connections

Opening three days a week, Westminster City Council’s new mini community hubs will offer residents the chance to get involved in a host of summer activities and access council support services.

The mini community hubs in Victoria and Charing Cross provide free and low-cost activities designed to meet the needs of the local community. They are part of our #2035 initiative to reduce health inequality in the borough. Another hub will open in the north of the borough later this year.

Developed through engagement with residents, these hubs use existing spaces in Victoria and Charing Cross Libraries. They will offer community-led activities and services, making our libraries more welcoming and accessible.

Andre, local resident in Charing Cross said:

I stumbled across this event, and it’s been amazing! It’s deeply encouraging that the council are setting up physical contact points for people to come in and connect! It’s fantastic, especially for those who are not digitally savvy, to have physical face-to face events. I am looking forward to seeing it in action!”

Built on resident feedback, the Charing Cross mini hub will host a variety of council services that residents have requested, including housing advice, financial support, and health and wellbeing services. Partnering with local organisations, the hub will offer a range of summer activities from breakdancing and drama classes to yoga sessions – ensuring there’s something for everyone.

At our Victoria Library Community Hub, we have two dedicated spaces for hub activities – the community room and the makerspace room. These unique spaces provide a stimulating environment where people of different backgrounds, ages and abilities can express their creativity. The summer program includes creative workshops such as children’s crafts, doodle clubs and carpentry DIY sessions.

John, a regular visitor of Victoria Library said:

I come to the library regularly, and it’s great to see a new additional space that’s open and welcoming. I think running more events here, like today’s launch, will bring neighbours together and help tackle loneliness.” 

Community Hubs are part of Westminster City Council’s Fairer Westminster commitment to make Westminster a place where everyone can feel safe by listening, connecting and working together. We believe that fostering stronger community connections and providing greater access to support services will enhance residents’ overall wellbeing.

Councillor Cara Sanquest, Cabinet Member for Communities at Westminster City Council said:

“We are proud to launch the first two projects in our Westminster Community Hubs Programme at Charring Cross and Victoria Libraries. Our new Community Hubs aim to tackle health and social inequalities by improving face to face access to services and support, and providing opportunities for people to get together for free inclusive activities.

When we work with residents and partners to design services and support, we end up with a better outcome. We are really grateful to the 200 residents and voluntary sector partners who took part in the co-production process to design these hubs.

The new hubs have something for everyone - a Maker Space with a laser cutter, breakdancing classes, employment support, coffee mornings, bring and share community lunches, arts and crafts classes, board game club, a new community room, and benefits and housing advice - drop in, take part, and let your neighbours know."

More information on opening times and list of activities can be found on the councils dedicated webpage. To sign up for current activities follow the Event Brite.