Voluntary Action Westminster's boss in disused property plea
Published: 8th April, 2011
A WESTMINSTER charity leader has appealed for local residents to help him “return” disused buildings to struggling community groups.
Bernard Collier, chief executive of Voluntary Action Westminster – which represents charities in the borough – wants to hear from people who know about disused properties that may once have been used by charities.
Mr Collier believes there are scores of such “community assets”.
He said: “Often, a small local organisation can cease to operate and they sometimes leave behind assets, such as properties, that should be being used for a charitable purpose. Properties could be an out-of-use Scout hut, or a community hall, or there may also be old charitable trusts, which the trustees are not sure what to do with.
“We want to make sure that such assets are put back to use in the way they should be.
“Considering the cuts facing the voluntary sector in Westminster we cannot afford to let any resources lie forgotten, which could be put to use. We really encourage anyone who knows, or thinks they might know, of a building, funds or other assets that are no longer being used for charitable activities, to get in touch.”
To help, call Voluntary Action Westminster on 020 7723 1216 or email jtaylor@vawcvs.org