We’re running our fist summer breakfast club throughout the holidays;
For more information call 01242 575638
Summer Breakfast Club
Weekly Activities at Hesters Way
We’ve put together a list of activities you can get involved with at Hesters Way Community Centre as follows;
For further information call Charlene on 01242 575638
Barnwood Trust Accessibility Project
We’re delighted to announce that West Cheltenham Partnership has successfully bid for funds to improve the community resource centres at Hesters Way and Springbank. The funds from the Barnwood Trust will support the following accessibility improvements to the community centres;
NEW LIFT AT HESTES WAY
We identified issues with the existing lift at HWCRC which means that many using walking sticks and wheelchair users are unable to use the lift unaided. (The door mechanism is not automated the door is very heavy). The lift mechanism is manual which can be difficult for users with some sight or reading issues. The new lift would address all these shortcomings and also offer a lift communication system that allows trapped passengers a means to contact emergency services by automatically dialling pre-programmed two-way voice communication system when an alarm button is pressed.
CHANGING PLACES TOILET AT HESTERS WAY
The current provision for accessibility toilets at Hesters Way does not meet best practice. The new toilet would address all the recommendations from the report and provide facilities not only for users of the building but also the community facilities nearby including the Edinburgh Place shops, library and Oasis building. Improvements will include an adjustable height adjustable changing table and wash basin, peninsular WC, drop down support arms & vertical and horizontal grab rails , privacy screen and ceiling track hoist (if feasible).
HEARING LOOPS AT HESTERS WAY AND SPRINGBANK
We will be in fitting two hearing loops to the conference room at Hesters Way and the main hall at Springbank. The new system is a digital wireless standard that operates to boost speech understanding in all noise levels and over distance. It wirelessly transmits the speaker’s voice directly to the listener.
TWO NEW ACCESSIBLE GARDENS AT SPRINGBANK
Our garden space adjacent to the main hall currently doesn’t have a level access so this change will allow easier access into the garden, the gravel which is now the surface treatment will be replaced with a smooth bonded base which will be used throughout the garden. These improvements will provide access for wheelchair users to the raised beds and seating area which will form the garden infrastructure. The new scheme will incorporate the existing trees which were planted in 2010 and have matured well and add depth, height, texture and aroma to give access to a full range of sensory experiences. Its south facing aspect and direct access to the neighbouring park makes it a space for quiet contemplation whilst also offering respite from the main hall activities.
A similar approach will be used to develop the new garden to the southwest of the site but here the well-constructed cobbles already provide a good ground structure. The benefits of this space are its public setting, easy access and proximity to other park facilities, but it too will offer a tranquil space for all the community to share.
IMPROVED ACCESSIBLE PARKING AT HESTERS WAY
The improvements proposed to accessible car parking spaces will allow for more space adjacent to the bays to ease access to the vehicles making getting in and out easier and safer and meeting government standards for width, length, and access zones.
IMPROVED ACCESSIBLE SEATING AT HESTERS WAY
Additional seating in the lobby areas, designed to allow people with mobility issues to get into and out of seating will make the space much more inclusive and allow greater independence for centre users.
IMPROVED SIGNAGE AT HESTERS WAY AND SPRINGBANK
We will also address the inconsistencies in and clarity of signage across the premises to make the buildings easier to navigate for people with sight and mental health issues.
The user experience of the community centres will be enhanced by a knowledgeable and informed staff and volunteer team trained to be more confident and welcoming.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
We will update this page as new developments are added. In the meantime we’ll be gathering a group of local potential users to help us make sure the changes meet the needs of the whole community
Office Spaces to let
We have various office spaces to let at the Hesters Way Community Resource Centre.
Full details can be found in the brochure below;
If you are interested and would like to look around please call Andy Hayes on 01242575638 or email andyhayes@hwpartnership.org.uk
Company Policies
West Cheltenham’s Summer Event
Call Out: Stall Holders & Activity Providers🌞
The West Cheltenham Partnership is hosting a Summer Community Event at Hesters Way Community Resource Centre and we’re looking for
✨ Stall holders
🎨 Activity providers
🎭 Performers
🤝 Local organisations
📅 Saturday 11 July
⏰ 11:00am – 2:00pm
We’d love to see groups from across West Cheltenham – including Hesters Way, Springbank, Fiddler’s Green, and Rowanfield but if you’re based elsewhere, please still get in touch!
📧 andy@hwpartnership.org.uk
Send us what you’d like to offer, any requirements, and your target audience.
Let’s make it a brilliant community day 🎉
West Cheltenham Arts Youth Theatre Project FREE
GET SEEN. EXPRESS YOURSELF. CONNECT.
A brand-new, FREE youth theatre programme for 14–18 year olds in West Cheltenham
Experience performing in a professional venue! Build confidence, creativity, connection and have fun exploring physical theatre, ensemble work, voice and more.
No experience needed – open to everyone, all abilities welcome. Just bring your energy and enthusiasm!
FREE – fully funded thanks to our partners
When & Where Starts: April 13 2026 (two terms) Day & Time: Every Monday, 6:00pm – 8:00pm Location: Hesters Way Community Resource Centre, Cassin Drive, Cheltenham GL51 0BW
Highlights • Perform in a professional Cheltenham venue (optional showcase in June) • Build confidence, wellbeing and new friendships • Inclusive and welcoming environment • Led by experienced tutors (including Bristol Old Vic Theatre School graduate) • Part of West Cheltenham Arts (KAM Performing Arts Academy CIC)
Spaces are limited! Only 15 places available – register your interest now to avoid missing out.
To join or ask questions, email: westcheltenhamhamarts@gmail.com Please include your name, age, and a short note about why you’d like to take part.
Supported by: Grassroots Neighbourhood Fund West Cheltenham Arts (part of KAM Performing Arts Academy) Gloucestershire County Council West Cheltenham Hub No Child Left Behind
Making the arts accessible for everyone in West Cheltenham. Creativity is for everyone!
Free Community Choir at Springbank Community Resource Centre
Free Community Choir at Springbank Community Resource Centre
Looking for a friendly, informal choir in West Cheltenham?
West Cheltenham Community Choir is a free, welcoming space for adults aged 18+ to come together, sing, and connect. No auditions. No pressure. No experience needed — just bring your voice.
Delivered at Springbank Community Resource Centre, this choir is all about community, confidence and the joy of singing together.
Who Is It For?
This choir is:
- Open to anyone aged 18+
- Free for residents of West Cheltenham
- Perfect for beginners and experienced singers alike
- Ideal if you want to boost confidence, wellbeing and meet new people
Whether you’ve sung in choirs before or only sing in the shower, you’ll feel right at home.
When & Where
Location:
Springbank Community Resource Centre, West Cheltenham
Day: Wednesdays
Time: 11:00am – 12:00pm
2025 Dates
- April 22, 29
- May 13, 20, 27
- June 3, 10, 17, 24
- July 1
Spaces are limited, so booking is recommended.
Why Join a Community Choir?
Singing in a group can:
- Improve mood and mental wellbeing
- Reduce stress
- Build confidence
- Create lasting friendships
- Strengthen community connections
Most importantly — it’s fun.
Delivered in Partnership
This project is delivered in partnership with Everyvoice Choirs (Everyman Theatre) and supported through funding from the CBC Community Pride Grant.
We are proud to be working alongside:
- Everyman Theatre Cheltenham
- West Cheltenham Arts
- Cheltenham Borough Council
This initiative ensures high-quality musical leadership while keeping the sessions completely free and accessible to the local community.
How to Book
To reserve your place, please email:
Simply include your name and the dates you would like to attend.
Everyone Welcome
This is a relaxed, supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to take part at their own pace. There’s no judgement, no auditions and no expectation — just community and music.
If you’re based in West Cheltenham and looking for something uplifting to be part of, we’d love to welcome you.
West Cheltenham Creative Writing Group
A new creative writing group will offer local people a place to write and share ideas.
The group is launching at Hesters Way Community Resource Centre, facilitated by West Cheltenham Partnership, giving residents a welcoming space to build confidence, with no experience required.
The group will celebrate the power of stories to bring people together and give voice to local experiences.
Starting next Wednesday (February 4), to coincide with National Storytelling Week, the group will meet weekly from 1:30 to 2:30pm at West Cheltenham Hub, based at Hesters Way Community Resource Centre.
Sessions will follow a relaxed, inclusive format designed to suit writers of all abilities. Everyone is welcome, including those who may lack confidence in writing or for whom English is not a first language.
The idea for the group grew from a conversation at the recent University of Gloucestershire’s Creative Writing Festival, where Wendy Flynn, the group’s lead facilitator, spoke with Senja Andrejevic, course leader for English literature and creative writing.
The university has expressed enthusiasm for supporting creative outreach in communities such as Hesters Way, with discussions underway about potential input into workshop design and future collaborative sessions.
Initially, the group will run as informal weekly meet-ups, with light structure available for those who want it. Sessions may include writing prompts, short exercises, word sprints and opportunities to share work. Those who prefer to go along and write independently are equally welcome.
Maria Allebone and Wendy Flynn
The group will be led by Wendy Flynn, a local writer with a BA in creative writing. Wendy will draw on a wide range of books, resources and writing approaches, keeping sessions friendly, accessible and free from academic pressure.
Wendy Flynn said: “Stories belong to everyone, and this group is about giving people the space to discover their voice in a way that feels safe, relaxed and enjoyable. You don’t need experience, perfect grammar or a big idea — just curiosity and a willingness to have a go.
“Launching during National Storytelling Week feels exactly right, because every person who walks through the door brings a story worth telling. I’m excited to help people explore that, whether they want to write for fun, for confidence or simply for themselves.”
Maria Allebone, West Cheltenham Partnership community development worker, said: “This group is about creating a welcoming, supportive space where people feel comfortable expressing themselves, whether they’ve been writing for years or are picking up a pen for the first time.
“It’s part of our wider aim to help West Cheltenham grow into a strong, thriving community, by working alongside local people and organisations to help everyone feel more connected, confident and supported.”
As the group grows and participants gain confidence, there are plans to introduce monthly themed workshops, such as poetry, autobiography or writing for children.
Above all, the group aims to be inclusive, supportive and rooted in the local community, reflecting the interests, experiences and educational backgrounds of people in West Cheltenham.
Residents are encouraged to attend the first session on Wednesday, February 4 at West Cheltenham Hub, Hesters Way Community Resource Centre, Cassin Drive, Cheltenham, GL51 7SU. Contact maria@hwpartnership.org.uk for more information.
West Cheltenham Hub – Sue Ryder Grief Kind Space
Grieving?
You’re not alone – support is available from Sue Ryder.
If you, a family member or a friend are grieving, in-person support is available in your area.
Sue Ryder Grief Kind Spaces are informal community drop-ins, providing an opportunity for people
who have been bereaved to share their feelings and experiences with each other.
The sessions are welcoming, inclusive and open to anyone who is over 18 and has experienced a bereavement, whether you want to attend regularly to connect with others in similar situations or just drop in for a quick chat.
Your Hesters Way Community Resource Centre Grief Kind Space starts Thursday 5 February 10am-12pm in West Cheltenham Hub.
For further bereavement support from Sue Ryder, visit sueryder.org/SupportOnline