Roy Fletcher Centre appeals for memories as it marks 30 years

The Roy Fletcher Centre is calling on people across Shrewsbury to help tell its story as it prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary.

The Centre was founded in 1996 to fulfil the vision of well-known local builder and philanthropist Roy Fletcher. His idea was simple but powerful: to bring charities together in good-quality, affordable premises so that more of their resources could be spent helping people.

Thirty years later, that vision remains at the heart of the Centre’s work.

Jenny Taylor, Chief Executive of the Roy Fletcher Centre, said: “Roy Fletcher understood that charities could achieve more when they had an affordable and supportive place from which to work. Thirty years later, we are proud that his vision continues to benefit organisations and local people across Shrewsbury.”

From its two buildings in the centre of Shrewsbury, the Roy Fletcher Centre provides affordable offices, counselling and meeting rooms, practical facilities and a warm, welcoming reception.

It is currently home to twelve charities and organisations working across counselling, housing, advice, disability, food support and inclusive activities, as well as services for people who cannot access printed news.

The Centre also provides free, friendly digital skills support, helping local people use their phones, tablets and computers with greater confidence.

Much of the Centre’s contribution happens behind the scenes, but its effect is felt throughout the community. By giving local organisations an affordable and supportive place to work, it helps them direct more of their time and money towards the people who need them.

As preparations for the anniversary celebrations begin, the Centre would like to hear from former staff, volunteers, service users, supporters and anyone else who has been part of its story.

This might include people who:

• worked or volunteered for one of the charities based at the Centre
• attended a meeting, counselling session, training course or community activity
• received help from one of its resident organisations
• learnt new digital skills with one of its volunteers
• helped to establish or support the Centre
• remember the buildings, their people or the Centre’s early years

Jenny added: “The Centre’s history is really the story of the people and organisations who have passed through its doors. We would love to hear from anyone who has a memory, photograph or story to share.

“It does not have to be a major event. A small personal memory can tell us just as much about what the Centre has meant to people over the past 30 years. We hope these contributions will help us celebrate our history and show why the Centre’s work still matters today.”

To share a memory, photograph or story, contact Jenny Taylor by emailing jenny.taylor@royfletchercentre.co.uk or calling 01743 341300.

Contributors should indicate whether they are happy for their material to be used in the Centre’s anniversary displays, publications or publicity.