Romsey Mill

Origins in Community Care

Romsey Mill began in 1980 when five Cambridge churches united under Rev Peter Phenna of St Martin's Church to tackle social challenges faced by young people and families in Romsey Town. Recognizing barriers to traditional church attendance, they created a direct service model focused on practical support. This grassroots effort evolved into a registered charity addressing vulnerability through education, skills training, and social integration. By the early 2000s, the organization renovated its Hemingford Road centre, reopening in 2007 with inauguration by Dr John Sentamu, then Archbishop of York. The facility now anchors community life, blending charitable mission with accessible spaces.

Youth Development at the Core

The Youth Development Team targets disadvantaged youth aged 10-21 across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, offering one-on-one mentoring, group activities, and residentials. Programs combat isolation, anger, school exclusion, and risky behaviors with non-judgmental support. Participants engage in youth clubs, creative arts, music studios, sports, and leadership training, building confidence and qualifications. The Step-Up programme provides alternative education for 14-16-year-olds, covering art, music, cooking, maths, and English. Young parents receive certified courses, while autism support and family services extend the reach. Thousands benefit yearly, with activities held at the centre and outreach venues like Cambourne's Soul Centre.

Diverse Community Facilities

Romsey Mill Centre features versatile rooms like the second-floor Rose Room for meetings, alongside spaces for events and groups. The on-site charity shop, open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4pm or 5pm, sells donated goods to fund operations, inviting quality second-hand contributions. As a former Children's Centre, it delivered Sure Start services for pre-school families. Today, affiliated groups use the venue for social, educational, and recreational pursuits, making it a lively nexus in this working-class neighborhood.

Impact and Enduring Legacy

Patrons including Hugh Duberly CBE and Lady Wilson of Dinton underscore Romsey Mill's respected status. Annual services reach about 2,600 individuals, emphasizing personal growth over institutional aid. Anecdotes highlight transformations, like youth overcoming boredom and police trouble through boosted confidence and education. The centre's role in Romsey Town—a historic area near Cambridge's core—embodies resilient community spirit, adapting to needs from 1980s youth outreach to modern vulnerability support.