Access Community Trust

Exciting times are ahead for the Beccles Waveney Centre, as regional charity Access Community Trust becomes official custodians of the vibrant community hub.

The venue on Ballygate in the town centre has long served as a cherished community hub, which plays a vital role in supporting older residents of Beccles and beyond. The centre provides a range of food and drinks, events, indoor sports, activities and opportunities for people to build friendships and connections.

Over the past year, Access has been assisting the outgoing committee with its daily operations whilst meeting and learning about its customers and their needs. The new friendly Access team and its volunteers will be expanding the venue’s offering over the months ahead to ensure the vital service continues to thrive in the future.

Confirming the merger, a former committee spokesperson remarked, “This is an exciting new chapter for the centre, Access already operates a similar venue in Lowestoft. They understand the need and challenges for the sector and are best placed to build on the success of this vibrant hub for our community”.

Emma Ratzer MBE, CEO of Access Community Trust visited earlier this week for the official handover, commenting,

“We are deeply committed to serving the needs of the local community and are delighted to assume the role of custodians of the Waveney Centre in Beccles. Our team is looking forward to developing the service with the local community to deliver its full potential – which will ensure longevity and enhance support for local residents”.

The Waveney Centre which is open Monday-Saturday from 9am represents the second later lives service that Access Community Trust has taken on within the last 12 months, as it expands its service offering to this demographic, after merging with Lowestoft’s Over 60’s Centre in 2023.

To find out more about the Waveney Centre visit: www.facebook.com/waveneycentrebeccles