A charity based in Swindon which strives to celebrate diversity and bring communities together has been hit by the sudden news that they will have to relocate.

Connecting Communities is run by volunteers with the aim of empowering vulnerable people and organises events including the popular annual international food festival and drop-in sessions from their hub at York House in Edison Park, Dorcan.

Despite only moving into the space in February and spending months renovating it, they have been told that their lease has expired and it will not be renewed, forcing them to relocate by September 1.

Chair of Connecting Communities, Tajwar Hassan, is desperate to find a new safe space in Swindon and has issued a plea to local businesses who may be able to help.

Tajwar explained: “Connecting Communities is a local charity that empowers and supports women, youth and families from underrepresented groups through group sessions, social events and workshops.

“In February of 2024, the charity leased a property in Edison Park, this property was intended to be the charity’s home. The property was left in disarray by the last tenant, with unclean carpets, furniture, and personal office belongings strewn throughout.

“Over two months, this space was painstakingly cleared out by charity members and volunteers, with many thanks to Swindon ScrapStore for taking a considerable amount of furniture. The space was since named the 'Faith Centre' and has acted as a safe space for several people.

“Connecting Communities has held a variety of events at the centre: parenting workshops with a creche (fully booked with a capacity of 30 parents), mother and toddler groups, boys youth clubs, educational sessions, professional coaching, and much more was planned for the summer holidays, such as a girls youth club and retreats.

“The centre has also helped store equipment for Swindon’s annual international food fair, which was attended by 4000 people this year.”

Tajwar added: “Unfortunately, the charity has been notified to vacate the property by the end of August. In light of recent events, it is now more important than ever to create a safe space for people from underrepresented groups. It is also important to recognise charities that support such causes.

“Through uplifting this space and the events held in it, we have developed a strong sense of camaraderie with our volunteers and supporters, and we hope to keep the centre open by relocating to another space to host such events.”

Tajwar can be contacted by email on tajwar@connecting-communities.co.uk