New Community Partnership Hub Opens in Manningham

Bradford City FC Community Foundation and Rackets Cubed collaborate to support local families

A new Community Partnership Hub has been launched in Manningham, Bradford, through a partnership between the Bradford City FC Community Foundation and the charity Rackets Cubed. The hub aims to provide support for families experiencing food poverty and offer a range of activities and services in a welcoming environment.

Location and Opening Details

The hub is based at the Foundation’s City Hub, located at 36 Valley Parade, opposite the University of Bradford Stadium. It officially opened on Tuesday 20 January and will operate every Tuesday from 3.30pm for two hours over a 12-week pilot period.

Services Offered

The Community Partnership Hub offers families the opportunity to purchase food affordably, with £4 providing access to approximately £40-50 worth of groceries. Alongside this, the hub provides various activities, support services, and games designed for families to enjoy in a safe and warm space.

Organisations Involved

• Bradford City FC Community Foundation – The official charity of Bradford City AFC, focusing on community support including tackling food poverty.
• Rackets Cubed – A UK registered charity delivering programmes that combine racket sports, STEM education, and nutrition. It supports over 750 underserved children weekly across the UK and operates Community Partnership Hubs that include social supermarkets and wider community support.

Statements from Representatives

Lizzie Saunderson-Trowell, Chief Operating Officer of the Bradford City FC Community Foundation, highlighted the importance of addressing food poverty and the partnership’s aim to create a safe and nourishing space for families in Bradford and the surrounding district.

Justine Herbert, CEO of Rackets Cubed, emphasised the role of Community Partnership Hubs in providing vital support to children and families, combining access to food, services, and community activities. She noted that the partnership with the Bradford City FC Community Foundation would help strengthen local relationships and reach families who need support.

Additional Information

Rackets Cubed delivers integrated programmes to key stage two pupils in disadvantaged areas, combining physical activity through racket sports, STEM education, and nutrition. The City Hub serves as a multi-use outreach and events space and will now function as a centre to support families facing food insecurity.

Families interested in attending the Community Partnership Hub are invited to book their place through an online form provided by the organisers.