The Bank – West Hull Community Hub

The densely populated Derringham area of Hull is in need of more locally accessible community facilities. Also, as the cost-of-living crisis bites, the need for local spaces that meet community needs has never been more vital. The Bank’s aim is to convert this disused bank into a multi-functional space for community interest groups, mental health awareness, local facility links, police surgeries, youth clubs, OAP groups, a community café, private office spaces, and computers for the community to use.

October 2022

Harry's Hat Logo

Conceptualised in February 2022 by a group of locals, The Bank’s aim is to bring cohesion and community spirit to West Hull. So far, they have forged links with local businesses, Hull Youth Justice, Police, NHS and Fire Commissioners, Local Radio & media and many residents.

The Bank aims to provide an essential community facility that will not only signpost locals to other organisations but also bring those sometimes inaccessible organisations closer to home, easing stress and aiding those who have problems accessing city centre facilities. It’s important that those who do not live in extremely close proximity to the city centre have things such as mental health support, signposting, financial support, advocacy, workshops, and community events available to them locally.

The project is in its early stages and is not far away from being able to open. Services will include:
  • Community Cafe – Aim is for the profits from this to fund the community hub
  • Small soft play area – for babies and young children
  • Digitial area – PCs and wifi available to use for free (equipment has been donated by a local business)
  • Community fridge – stocked by local food businesses and allotments
  • Clothes washing facilities

During the pandemic, loneliness was a big issue for many in the local community, especially for the older generations, so The Bank has organised local taxi firms to provide free pick-up and drop off so that they can take part in any group activities being held or just come to the community cafe and have a chat with others.

Overall the aim is to bring the community together and provide locals with a friendly, non-judgemental space that is open for all.

The project is still in the refurbishment process, with the floor recently being laid. A grant for The Bank would be used to further progress and move them closer towards an opening day.

Myself and the local community members on our committee who have been invested in this project since February would be overjoyed and extremely thankful to receive this funding. We know how important this is for the local community due to the enthusiastic response and feedback received form many locals and organisations. Thank you so much.

Andrea Lillie

The Bank

“This building has so much potential and will make a great base for the community. Rod and Andrea are very passionate about bringing this project to life and clearly understand the needs of the local community. The services available via the Bank will benefit the community in many ways, not only reduce loneliness, help people make new friends, give young people somewhere to be, provide free toast to school children en route to school and provide people will vital support that they would otherwise not have access to.”

Michelle Taft

Executive Director, Matthew Good Foundation

Latest Project Updates

Granted £3,500
December 2022

Our Grant helps The Bank to open early

The Bank West Hull Community Hub was awarded the cash injection that enabled them to finalise their opening preparations after winning a vote by John Good Group employees in the Foundation’s Grants for Good scheme.

Granted £3,500
October 2022

Granted £3,500

After becoming one of the top five finalists in the latest Grants for Good Round, The Bank won the employee vote and £3,500 was granted.