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Save Our Community Spaces

A Call to Action for Leicester Residents

Leicester City Council is proposing the closure of several Libraries and Community Centres across our city. These spaces are more than just buildings—they are lifelines for thousands of local people.

Over the past 15 to 20 years, there have been steady
cuts to public services by both Conservative and Labour governments. The recent cuts to the welfare budget announced by our local MP and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Ms Liz Kendall, exemplify this trend.

While we seek to influence the council to halt these closures is an option, we believe a more pragmatic approach is necessary. 

As a community, we must realistically advocate for and demand the appropriate support that serves our best interests in the short, medium, and long term.

These closures are not just cuts—they’re a blow to our communities. Let’s come together as residents, local groups and community organisations where ever you are in the city. To arrive at a collective outcome. To protect and sustain what matters.

Before exploring potential options to manage these much needed services, let’s examine the devastating impact these cuts and the disposal of community assets could have on local families and communities.


CLOSURE OF SAFE SPACES FOR VULNERABLE GROUPS

From parent-and-baby groups to English classes and youth clubs—these Centres support the most vulnerable in our city.


What's at Risk?

LIBRARIES

Libraries provide vital educational resources, especially for families, students, and job seekers who can’t afford them elsewhere.
Access to Books, Learning & the Internet. Many rely on library computers to apply for jobs, access benefits, and stay connected
Elimination of Help for Jobseekers & the Digitally Excluded

LIBRARIES AT RISK

 ~Evington Library
~Knighton Library
​~Rushey Mead Library

COMMUNITY CENTRES

Community Centres offer warmth, friendship, and activities that prevent loneliness and boost mental health.
Storytime sessions, homework help, and safe
after-school activities could all disappear, putting disadvantaged children further behind.
Removal of Lifelines for the Elderly & Isolated
Discontinuation of Support for Children & Young People

COMMUNITY CENTRES AT RISK

~Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre
​~Braunstone Frith Recreation Centre
​~Coleman Neighbourhood Centre
​~Eyres Monsell Community Centre
​~Gilmorton Community Rooms
~Netherhall Neighbourhood Centre
~Rushey Mead Recreation Centre
​~Tudor Centre

The Impact on the Community

Increased mental health issues, isolation and loneliness, especially among the elderly, disabled, and diverse communities who will suffer from cultural isolation.
Widening inequality between those who can and can’t afford alternatives.
Widening inequality between those who can and can’t afford alternatives.
Loss of local identity, culture, and connection— these centres are integral to maintaining the unique character and cohesion of our communities.

The Impact on Local Businesses 

A Community Space like the Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre is located in the heart of a thriving retail and restaurant district. It's closure would have significant negative impacts on local businesses, including:
Reduced visitors to the area: The Centre attracts many visitors who also patronize nearby shops and restaurants. Its closure would lead to a decrease in foot traffic, affecting sales and revenue for local businesses. restaurants. 
Loss of Community Events: The Centre hosts various community events that draw crowds to the area. Without these events, businesses would lose valuable opportunities to engage with potential customers.community events that draw crowds to the area. 
Decreased Support for Local Economy: The Centre provides essential services that support the local economy, such as job training and business development programs. Its closure would hinder these efforts and negatively impact economic growth.local economy, such as job training and business development programs.

We want to hear about how the changes are affecting you as a Resident or a Business Owner.   

Fill In Our Survey

Resident Impact Survey
Business Impact Survey

What Can You Do?

SIGN UP FOR OUR CAMPAIGN

Empower yourself by joining our efforts. Work with us to plan, prepare, and seek to influence for the best outcome for your local centre.

Campaign Sign-up
FILL IN OUR SURVEY

Add your voice to the growing number of residents sharing how the changes are affecting them and demanding action.

Complete Survey
ATTEND ORGANISED MEETINGS

Participate in meetings organised by SaveOurCommunitySpaces and Leicester City Council Public Meetings. Your presence ensures that the City Mayor & Councillors see and hear the people affected. 
View Events
SPREAD THE WORD

Engage with your friends & neighbours, share information on social media to help raise awareness. 
Use the hashtag
#SaveOurCommunitySpaces 
to join the conversation
Share Now

Please help us Save Our Community Spaces by donating or sponsoring us

Donate Now

SUSTANABLE SOLUTIONS:

Let’s come together as residents, local groups and community organisations where ever you are in the city. To arrive at a collective outcome. To protect and sustain what matters for the common good.

Community Asset Transfers

Empowering local organisations to manage Community Centres, fostering responsibility and tailored service delivery.

Partnerships with
​ Non-Profit Organisations

Collaborating with charities to co-manage facilities, leveraging expertise and resources.

Volunteer-Led Initiatives

Mobilising community volunteers to oversee operations, ensuring Centres remain open and serve local needs.

Hybrid Models

Combining efforts of the council,
private sector, and community groups to create sustainable financial and operational models.

Exploring Sustainable Solutions for Our Community Spaces

Leicester City Council’s proposed closures of libraries and community Centres threaten vital community assets that provide educational resources, social support, and cultural enrichment. To address this challenge, Dharma Seva Community Interest Company (CIC) will work with local groups to help them arrive at sustainable solutions for the local community.

Get Started

By exploring these alternatives, 
​we can work together towards preserving the invaluable services that our Community Spaces provide.​

About Dharma Seva CIC:

Dharma Seva CIC is dedicated to enhancing access to key services and fostering community investments. Their objectives include building community capacity, reducing silos, increasing funding, improving cohesion, and influencing policy and investment decisions. They provide services such as free advice and guidance, access to community services, and educational courses.