Roseberry Pre-school Needs a New Home

Introduction:

We, the undersigned, call on the local authorities, community leaders, and stakeholders to urgently support the Sikh Community Centre (SCC) in Leicester, which has been illegally evicted from its premises. This Centre has been a vital resource for over three decades, providing essential services to the community, including early childhood education and support for adults with disabilities.

Background:

The Sikh Community Centre has been a cornerstone of support in Leicester and Leicestershire since its establishment in 1992. Recently, the Centre was subjected to an illegal eviction, with no prior notice, leaving it unable to continue its vital services. The eviction has displaced 48 children from Roseberry Pre-school and disrupted the support network for 10 adults with severe learning and physical disabilities.

The Centre has been serving the community for over three decades, now the Centre needs the community’s support. Coming together as a united front will ensure the Centre’s support can continue for the foreseeable future.

Impact:

Roseberry Pre-school: An OFSTED registered early education facility rated "Good" in its 2022 inspection, serving 48 children aged 2 to 4 years. The sudden closure threatens their early education and emotional well-being.

East Park Activity Group (EPAG): A support group for 10 adults with severe learning and physical disabilities, many of whom have relied on the Centre for over 30 years. The disruption has left these individuals without their critical support network.

Community Services: The Centre has provided a wide range of services, including:

Summer Play Schemes: Programs for up to 150 children.

Community Events and Fairs: Social gatherings and cultural celebrations.

Social Outings: Trips and activities for vulnerable members of the community.

Keep-fit Classes: Physical activity sessions for all ages.

Gym Access: Providing facilities for physical fitness.

Music Classes: Education in musical instruments.

Martial Arts Classes: Training in self-defense and discipline.

Adult Education: Free sessions in English, IT, and other essential skills.

Collaborations with Other Community Centres and organisations: Working together to provide comprehensive neighborhood services.

Business Plan for Self-Sufficiency: Developing strategies to become self-sufficient after council funding cuts in 2016.

Annual Footfall and Efficiency:
The Sikh Community Centre, a not-for-profit organization, has a footfall of over 20,000 people annually and was rated as one of the most efficient (value for money) community centres by previous funders.

Call to Action:
We urge the community, local authorities, and stakeholders to:

Secure a New Location: Help identify and secure a new premises for the Centre to resume its essential services without further disruption.

Address Immediate Needs: Provide support for the immediate needs of the displaced children and adults during this transition period.

Support Long-Term Sustainability: Advocate for measures that ensure the long-term sustainability of the Centre’s services and support for the community.