This Thursday, 26 January sees the formal launch of the Fitzherbert Community Hub, but since the doors opened in November with the informal community welcome day, it is already full of life and purpose.

Astonishing after such a short period in action, but on reflection, perhaps not surprising.

The key is the commitment and aspiration of all partners towards community integration and social value – all core to the individual philosophies of each partner, however, differently demonstrated in their own membership and work. Mutual trust even more than mutual interest holds human associations together. Our partners aspire towards both.

To be able to achieve this in a beautifully elegant space, newly transformed, is empowering for our combined community endeavours.

After the grey months of the pandemic, to see the sunlight stream through the windows and feel the warmth inside – on every level – is inspiring and re-charging for everyone.

The Fitz has been visualised creatively from the start, from the first conversations Brighton Table Tennis Club had in 2017 with the parish and the Real Junk Food Project about the possibilities of a new and inspirational model of community integration.

Excitingly, the discussions continue about how best and imaginatively this can be achieved. There need be no contradiction between imagination and efficiency and our purpose with this twinning is mirrored in our new building – crafted with style but also intention. It is lovely and it works.

So, the welcome has begun. The excitement of seeing a new centre open to and for everyone has been palpable. To spend time in elegant surroundings with new people as well as known groups has been inviting. Good food, fitness and fellowship are modelled and this is increasingly appreciated by people of every age and background in this economically diverse area.

It is the diversity of The Fitz users and the respect everyone demonstrates in such a short time that is remarkable. In particular, people known to be often dis-regulated in the community are calm and appreciative of the dignity and welcome that is offered to everyone. This pro-social atmosphere has become established quickly and naturally.

Maya Angelou said

“ I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Maya Angelou

There is much to be done but a good start has been made.