"It's not one person, it is everyone"

We have refugees who have come from different countries volunteering and helping others. Whether it be a Ukrainian refugee whose daughter did not speak when they first arrived in England and are both now thriving and dancing and doing so well. Or the woman who came last summer with her son who is non-verbal and autistic. 

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She is a single mum and fled an abusive relationship. She felt at home and safe in our space and has since been volunteering every week. She now cooks as part of our Come Dine with Me meal each week, where we people from different backgrounds cook for everyone, a free meal made with love. 

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Or the cancer survivor, who now runs our knitting group. Another woman originally from Algeria, serves every day in the Cafe and supports families with food packages from supermarkets. Another from Ukraine, who cannot yet speak English but comes every week, makes tea and serves everyone in the most organised and friendly way.

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‘’If more people arrive, we make the table bigger as everyone is welcome’’

The Britwell Hub in Slough has become a place of connection, warmth, genuine cohesion and beautiful conversations. For so many people it is a highlight of their week. We promote inclusion in its fullest sense and we have joined up parts of the 'system' that usually doesn't happen. Our local Councillor who then became Mayor, still comes every week. Our event last summer celebrating VE Day 80 brought together children from local schools to meet people who remember the war and share their experiences. 

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Britwell helps residents to connect with local authority support, GP's, fitness and wellbeing coaches alongside community organisations, library and cafe volunteers serving people from all backgrounds, all ages, always with a smile. We provide free exercise sessions for more than 60 people per week, alongside health checks and support for those with substance abuse challenges. Our social prescriber is an integral part of the Hub which means that patients who are referred can come to the Hub and quickly feel supported in a judgement free zone. Every week we hear stories of how someone was feeling lonely and is now feeling less lonely part of the Britwell Hub Family. 

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‘’No judgement, everyone is welcome’’

Collectively everyone who attends the Hub is there for each other. Loneliness is such a big issue and we can see the difference it can make just having a space that feels safe and welcoming. Some people sit and draw or colour, do a jigsaw, or just sit and not say anything at all. One of our most recent guests is someone who has struggled with epilepsy for many years and has felt trapped and unable to go out much. She is an amazing artist and sits and draws the most calming nature scenes. She now wants to start a support group for others who suffer in silence with epilepsy. Even our caretaker in the building is part of the magic of Britwell Hub. Always helpful, always supporting us behind the scenes.

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The Britwell Hub was the winner of the Community Connector Award at the Warm Welcome Awards in 2026.

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