Hornsey Vale is a community hub run for, and by, local people living in Haringey, north London.
The self-funded centre is run by Hornsey Vale Community Association, a not-for-profit organisation set up by local residents in 1991. Volunteers work hard to keep it open, inclusive, accessible and safe. At the moment we employ one part-time member of staff, Emma Watson.
Every week, when operating fully, we host more than 60 different classes and activities led by partners, grassroot organisations, community groups and local freelancers. From martial arts and toddler football, to badminton and Zumba, there’s lots going on to support fitness and wellbeing. Specialist classes target people with particular conditions such as multiple sclerosis, or those living with lung problems. We proudly partner with Counselling Initiatives to host low-cost talking therapy led by trainee volunteers, and host support sessions for several charities.
There’s creativity too. We offer adult art classes and manga drawing for children and teens. A range of classes supports children to sing, dance and play, and give parents and carers the chance to connect. The University of the Third Age organises study groups from the Centre.
Subsidised by hiring rooms, we organise a number of free or low cost community events and socials throughout the year. In the past, these have included Apple Day, Dance Fest, craft fairs and alternative clothes shows. Our Lunch Club provides a hot meal and an opportunity to meet new people on the first Wednesday of the month.
We’re proud to play a role in civic life. We are a polling station, we host local councillor surgeries and we are a place where information is shared and discussed. We offer public toilets and changing facilities, especially to users of Stationer’s Park next door.
We’re also a collection point for Growing Communities‘ veg box scheme which brings fresh, organic, seasonal veg and fruit every week.
Many of us in the local area live in flats and don’t have gardens or the space to hold parties. At Hornsey Vale, we offer reasonably priced space that you can hire, suitable for children’s parties and family events. We’re not a late night venue – the organisers need to leave the building by 10.30pm on a Saturday and by 9.30pm on other days. Please note we don’t accept bookings for religious activity, funerals that involve a coffin on site, nor party political meetings.
Do get in touch if there’s more you’d like to see happen… Email: info@hornseyvale.org with your ideas.
Whatever brings you to Hornsey Vale, we hope you enjoy the space and the opportunity to connect with other people.