History
Haslingden Community Link developed from a concept first considered in October 1997 and led the way for social enterprise in Rossendale. A group of community minded people came together to discuss the possibilities of utilising a former Catholic school in Haslingden as a community centre, ‘for the common good’
The transformation of the vision into the reality began, project and business plans were developed and were successful in obtaining initial funding to convert the 130 years old Victorian School into a community facility fit for purpose.
In July 2000 the new facility was officially opened by the local MP Greg Pope providing facilities for childcare, adult education, health, leisure and social care needs of the community.
Since conception the centre has been developed with the aid of many funders including:
- 1999 Action for Haslingden Partnership
- 1999 Lottery Poverty and Disadvantaged Fund
- 2001 Lottery New Opportunities Fund
- 2003 Lottery Community Fund
- 2006 Lancashire County Council
- 2014 Lancashire County Council
- 2014 Lancashire Environmental Fund
- 2018 Power to Change
- 2019 Lancashire Environmental Fund
- 2020 Community Foundation for Lancashire & Merseyside
- 2020 The Duchy of Lancaster
- 2020 National Lottery Community Fund
In January 2006, following lengthy discussions, consultations and input from stakeholders, Haslingden Community Link was successfully designated as a Children’s Centre. The only instance in the whole of Lancashire of a Community Enterprise becoming a centre.
Haslingden Community Link and Children’s Centre is open 51 weeks of the year, day and evening, providing educational, health and social activities. Regular weekend functions are booked for religious, social and cultural events.