Maldon Hub on the Hill launched to help community through 'difficult times'

Maldon Town Mayor John Driver attended the launch of Hub on the Hill at Maldon Town Hall on Thursday (March 19th) along with volunteers. (Credit: Caroline Coastal FM)

VOLUNTEERS are striving to "build a more connected, caring and resilient Maldon" through their new community initiative.

Hub on the Hill is a donation-based space that hopes to support residents experiencing financial hardship, homelessness or social isolation.

The initiative launched at Maldon Town Hall on Thursday (March 19) in the company of Maldon Town Mayor John Driver and dozens of residents seeking a friendly chat.

Jill, a 90-year-old Maldon resident, told Caroline Coastal FM: "Maldon needs something like this.

"My husband has had a stroke so we can't get out very much, but this is a good centre for us to get to and have a chat with people. I think it's great."

Jill and Derek, both 90-year-old Maldon residents, say they are excited to attend Hub on the Hill regularly. (Credit: Caroline Coastal FM)

Katy Bird, one of the founders of Hub on the Hill, said: "We want to bring people together to make friendships in a safe and inclusive environment where everyone is welcome.

"Times are hard financially, so we also wanted to provide a place that is donation only, which means if you can't afford to pay anything, you don't."

Hub on the Hill provides a range of refreshments and cakes suitable for all dietary requirements, and plan to provide hot food from High Street businesses such as Maldon Spice and Sark in the near future.

A small designated children's area called "Hublet's Corner" offers parents the chance to unwind and let their children meet new friends in a 'fun and safe' area.

Grace Everett, a 33-year-old mother from Maldon, said: "As a parent, somewhere like this is invaluable.

"It will be great in the holidays, or for people with more than one child... especially when it doesn't cost an arm and a leg!"

Grace Everett attended the launch of Hub on the Hill with her young son, and says they will definitely return. (Credit: Caroline Coastal FM)

Dina Harris, Community Engagement Officer at Maldon & District Citizen's Advice, said: "It's wonderful to have community spaces like this where people have somewhere to socialise.

"Everyone here has been very positive, and I think [Hub on the Hill] will just keep growing."

Maldon Town Mayor John Driver also attended the launch event, and told Caroline Coastal FM: "We are living through difficult times, so to have a warm space is great.

"The volunteers are so bubbly and enthusiastic, and they have put in a lot of effort.

"Hopefully this is the start of a long journey for Hub on the Hill."

Cllr John Driver attended the launch of Hub on the Hill and praised the 'bubbly' volunteers who run the new community initiative in Maldon. (Credit: Caroline Coastal FM)

Hub on the Hill is located at Maldon Town Hall from 10:30am-12:30pm every Thursday (excluding the second Thursday of each month).

The initiative can be found on Facebook for reminders of meetings and updates to the menu.