Since opening its doors in 2011, The Deptford Lounge has quickly emerged as a community hub, where everyone is welcome. It has formed a new component of the rich tapestry that is the Deptford community and has done so much, to the benefit of so many.

A short six years ago the Deptford Lounge was still a work in progress, and as the construction was going on, the architects of Pollard Thomas Edwards clearly had the welfare of the people in mind. The golden-hued structure now stands tall in Giffin Square, situated in the heart of Deptford high street.

The community centre offers a multitude of activities, events and services which are open to the public and the addition of a vibrant, lively and friendly environment, shows what the people of Deptford are so lucky to have.

The Lounge's intended purpose is to have something for everybody and this is set down by their main objective,  to appeal to everyone and cater to their needs. The Lounge tries to approach this in a number of ways, especially crafting the experience to be one that will leave you amazed.

This is most notable in the range of outstanding facilities that are open to the public.

When you first enter you are greeted with a vast library on the ground floor. Bookshelves containing novels, volumes and biographies from a diverse range of genres are dotted all over the place, and compounded with the “warm and inviting” environment of the floor makes it a very conducive environment for studying and a good area for socialising with friends.

The computer suites, featuring a collection of nine PCs and ten Macs, is also open to the public for personal use. The Lounge Cafe is also something that makes the Lounge even more special with a selection scrumptious cakes, refreshing beverages and world-class coffee on display, served by the loveliest of baristas.

There are also a number of spaces for hire, like the meeting rooms. Each comes equipped with essentials such as TVs, projectors and laptops making it the ideal location for presentations or work meetings. The foyer area, nearby the Lounge’s entrance, is also available for use. It is a “well lit” and “airy space” fit with a stage, allowing for spoken words and performances.

The Lounge also offers a numerous number of creative, fun and enriching community events and activities on a routine basis. If you come on a Wednesday or Saturday you can enjoy a great movie for free, while coming on a Tuesday will allow you to learn Afro Fusion Dancing which is great fun for those who are fond of African dance or just want to broaden their horizons. Alongside those, some of the upcoming events also delve into the artistic side of things, such as the highly anticipated Frost Fest which will feature live performances, music and craft workshops for all the family to enjoy.

Through its great work, the Deptford Lounge has given so much to the Deptford community and has helped to reconstruct a shared sense of communal spirit. It is simply the gift that keeps on giving.

Jesse Babudoh, City and Islington College