RUTH CADBURY MP VISITS ‘IMPORTANT COMMUNITY HUB’ BRIDGELINK CENTRE

Last week, local MP Ruth Cadbury visited the Bridgelink centre in the Ivybridge estate with local councillor Linda Green, to learn more about the services they provide to the community.

The charity has been at the centre of the Ivybridge community for over fifteen years and hosts a wide range of events including their popular Youth Club which runs twice a week with around 20-30 young people in attendance each time.

Ruth said: ‘Although I have visited the centre before during my time in Hounslow council, it was great to come again and be reminded of the really crucial work they do for local families. Due to the government austerity drive, many charities such as this have faced big cuts to their funding but continue to provide vital services advising people on housing problems, debt and domestic violence. It is an important community hub and a great asset to the Ivybridge area.’

The centre also runs a foodbank in conjuction with All Souls, hosts a mediation service for families in dispute called Family Matters and runs English classes once a week for those who do not qualify for Adult Education ESOL courses.

According to those working at the centre, a high percentage of families from the Ivybridge estate are households in low paid employment or are unemployed and around fifty percent of pupils at Ivybridge school were eligible for free school meals in 2014, which is double the national average.

The centre is running a fun day on the 16th July 12-4pm and is looking for donations for their raffle, please get in touch with Tracey by emailing ivybridgelink@btconnect.com, if you need more information.