The Poverest Centre (Bromley Adult Education Centre) in Orpington, is more than just a building, it is a lifeline for many people and families, including my own. My brother, who has autism, relies on this centre for his education, wellbeing, routine, and sense of purpose and fulfilment in his life. If the centre was to close as proposed in 2027 to make way for housing, it would leave him with no other resource nearby where he can do something with his days. 

Many individuals with special needs that attend the Poverest Centre, including my brother, are unable to travel independently. They rely on family members, taxis, or public transport with personal assistants. What is currently a 7-minute journey would become 30 minutes or more if the centre was to close and only operate from the Kentwood Centre in Penge. This is simply not feasible for most.

Furthermore, allocating just a section in a library is wholly inadequate. At present, several classes and courses are run daily at Poverest, providing meaningful, structured, and fulfilling opportunities. The proposed arrangement will not meet the needs of these vulnerable adults and risks leaving them without the essential support they rely on.

The Poverest Centre serves as a crucial resource in our community, providing adult education and support to individuals with diverse needs. It offers a place where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can learn, grow, and engage with others in a supportive environment. For many, it is a sanctuary of acceptance and opportunity that cannot simply be replaced.

The decision to close this facility overlooks the significant impact it has on its attendees and their families. With adult education being a vital part of lifelong learning, especially for individuals with special needs, shutting down Poverest Centre would be a step back in fostering inclusive communities.

We implore the Bromley Council and relevant authorities to reconsider any plans that would lead to the closure of the Poverest Centre. Keeping it open means safeguarding a pillar of our community, ensuring that people like my brother have a place that provides him with not only education, but friendships and fulfilment in his life. 

Please join me in this cause to keep the Poverest Centre open by signing this petition. Let's stand together to protect the resources that matter most to our community.