The old pop in parlour

Bexley Age UK chief reveals Welling Pop-in Parlour plans

Robin Cottle, Reporter Wednesday, June 13, 2012
3:04 PM

Older people in Welling have been given a boost after the boss of Age UK Bexley announced plans for the long-term future of the popular Pop-in Parlour.

Chief executive Paul Goulden has said the charity has been in discussion with housing developers London & Quadrant about moving the facility for the over-55s into some of its sheltered accommodation in Shooters Hill.

Age UK moved out of its Bellegrove Road premises on June 1, after using it for 22 years.

It is temporarily operating out of nearby Welling Library with coffee mornings on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Mr Goulden said: “There are positive sounds coming from both sides and London & Quadrant have been very receptive.

“They have to protect their own interests and look after their residents, but we’re reasonably confident that this will come off. If it doesn’t, we’ve got a few other ideas up our sleeve which we’re working on.”

Discussions are at an early stage but Mr Goulden has stated he does not want the Pop-in Parlour to be in the library for more than three or four months.

The previous centre had been open four days a week for tea and coffee, light lunches and activities such as art groups.

Age UK was forced to move because of a rent increase.

Mr Goulden said: “Some of the Bellegrove Road users have come over to the temporary site, but we need to find a permanent home for our customers.

“We’re not ruling out opening other venues in Welling if this is a successful move.”

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