Behind the Scenes at Wallace House: The Heart of Evesham’s Community
Wallace House has long been a vital hub for Evesham, offering everything from fitness classes and creative workshops to youth clubs and community support services. But what really goes on behind the scenes to keep this invaluable space running? We sat down with the centre’s manager Sian Purton to get an inside look at the daily operations, the challenges faced, and the passion that keeps the team going.
A Day in the Life of Wallace House
“No two days are the same,” the manager Sian tells us—and looking at their packed schedule, it’s easy to see why. From Monday to Saturday, the centre is buzzing with activity. Mornings might see fitness classes, art sessions, and support groups, while afternoons welcome everything from martial arts and youth clubs to table tennis and running groups. Saturdays often bring special events such as craft fairs and fun days, making Wallace House a true community hub.
Challenges and the Fight to Keep Wallace House Thriving
Despite its vital role in the community, Wallace House faces its fair share of challenges. “We’re a small team and rely heavily on our wonderful volunteers,” Sian explains. With an aging building in need of maintenance and the ongoing challenge of securing funding, keeping the centre running smoothly is no small task.
Like many charities, Wallace House applies for grants from various organisations and is deeply grateful when successful. However, community support also plays a key role. Donations—whether financial or in the form of items for the community larder, crafting supplies, or even musical instruments—help keep the centre well-equipped for those who rely on it.
The People Behind the Centre
Running a busy community space takes dedication, and Wallace House is powered by a small but passionate team of five staff members, supported by 17 incredible volunteers. “We all enjoy helping people,” Sian says. “The feeling you get when someone walks in needing support and leaves happier than when they came in—that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”
Moments That Matter
When asked about a particularly proud moment, Sian shares a story that sums up the centre’s impact. “We’ve been able to give young people experiences they wouldn’t otherwise have—glow-in-the-dark sports, water activities… Seeing their smiles makes everything worth it.”
Looking to the Future
Despite the challenges, Wallace House continues to grow and evolve. If unlimited resources were available, the manager has a clear vision: “We’d expand our team, modernise the building, and improve our visibility in town. Although we’ve been in the heart of Evesham for many years, not enough people know what, where, or who we are.”
With a dedicated team and an unwavering commitment to the people of Evesham, Wallace House remains a beacon of community spirit. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, everyone can play a part in ensuring it continues to thrive for years to come.
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