Reflections from the Vassall Hub Autumn Fare

Despite the crashing rain and a sky that refused to play ball, the Vassall Hub Autumn Fare went ahead with heart, humour, and a healthy dose of resilience. Led by the wonderful Zoe Williams, Jess Garbett, Tara Malcolm, Polly Tisdall and Jasmine Williams, the Vassall A-team was out in force – determined to welcome and support whoever was brave enough to venture out into the storm.

It wasn’t the full turnout we had hoped for. Between the relentless weather and a few unwelcome COVID cases affecting attendance, numbers were lower than expected. But, as is so often the case, the value of community events like these isn’t measured in headcounts. What truly matters is the connection – and there was an abundance of that spirit.

The camaraderie among staff, residents, and partners shone through the drizzle. The Props team’s cakes were nothing short of amazing (think Bake Off but with an extra spooky factor), while Life Church, with support from Learning Partnership West, transformed the David Baker room into an incredible youth space – gaming stations, ping pong, and enough sweets to give Willy Wonka a run for his money. It was community connection in action – people coming together, showing up for one another, and creating joy despite the weather’s best attempts to dampen it. 

I brought my own teens along to help in the craft room (you’ll spot the younger one hiding her face in the photo!). On the long, rainy walk home, my eldest – almost sixteen and not easily impressed – turned to me and said, “It really is like a family, Mum.” 

Enough said. 

Because that’s exactly what it felt like. 

As a single parent, I’ve come to really treasure that sense of belonging these events create. I may work for Bristol Charities, but at moments like this, I’m also just another person wrapped in the extended arm of this community – held, supported, and uplifted alongside my girls. It’s a reminder that community isn’t something we simply deliver; it’s something we all share and build together. 
 
Even when attendance isn’t at capacity, when plans go awry or rain clouds roll in, it’s always worth the effort. Every conversation, every smile, every shared slice of cake builds something lasting. 

At the heart of it all, the Vassall Hub continues to be a place where people belong, come together, and lift each other up.  

It really does take a village.