Southwick Community Centre in Sunderland is being transformed over three days by volunteers in a DIY SOS-style makeover, with plans to reopen in September featuring a cafe, soft play, wellness hub, meeting rooms and bar.
Three-day transformation
Active Families North East is leading the effort to make the formerly "neglected" building unrecognisable. The work is scheduled across three days - August 5, August 22 and August 23 - with the first date marking the start of the project.
The group is seeking volunteers from across the North East to help strip out and refurbish the venue. Kelly Brougham, director at Active Families North East, said: "It's all hands on deck - literally! We need all the help we can get as we know how much the community wants this space open as soon as possible. Even if you can simply lift a paintbrush or clean a table, we'd love to have you down to help and we'll be providing refreshments all throughout the day."
Support and recognition
Volunteers who take part will have their names recorded and added to a Supporters' Wall displayed in reception. Brougham added: "There's no pressure at all to stay all day, just simply pop in for an hour if you can. Everyone who helps out's name will be recorded and added to our Supporters' Wall which will be displayed in reception for all to see."
Those offering skilled trades, materials, or wishing to bring a larger group are encouraged to contact Brougham by email. The group is also seeking support from local food outlets to help keep volunteers fed.
Community backing
Brougham thanked supporters who signed a petition urging Sunderland Council to complete an agreed asset transfer that handed over the venue. She said: "With over 3000 people across Sunderland signing our petition and hundreds of thousands of people seeing our campaign online, we can't thank everyone enough and we can't wait to deliver on what we've promised for so many months."
The centre is expected to reopen to the public in September.
