“If you’re Irish and live in London you’d be grateful to the London Irish Centre a hundred times a day”. Those aren’t my words. They come from the novelist Maeve Binchy.
Welcome to the London Irish Centre. It stands as the heart of the Irish community in London. For over sixty years, the London Irish Centre has championed Irish arts and culture. It supports Irish people in London.
The London Irish Centre opened its doors in 1955. This was during a recession in Ireland. Britain needed workers so many Irish people migrated here. The Centre provided accommodation and employment support. It was a starting point for those arriving. Camden Square was chosen due to its nearness to Euston Station. Irish people arrived there from the Holyhead Ferry Port.
The London Irish Centre quickly became a social hub. Dinners, dances, and social functions filled its calendar.
The London Irish Centre is more than just a building. It is a registered charity. It embodies the spirit of community. The London Irish Centre offers welfare services. They are the largest for Irish people outside of Ireland. Each year, they assist thousands. They improve their housing and income. The Centre provides access to health. It fosters social inclusion.
Imagine arriving in a new city. You have little money and few contacts. The London Irish Centre is there. It offers a helping hand. It provides a sense of belonging.
The London Irish Centre’s impact is immense. In 2013, they helped over 13000 welfare clients. More than 150 volunteers dedicate their time. Over 30000 people connect through their online communities. Annually, over 25000 people experience Irish arts and culture here.
The Centre delivers a diverse program of Irish arts. It showcases the finest Irish talent to London audiences. It offers a taste of home to the city’s Irish community.
Past presidents of Ireland have visited the London Irish Centre. Mary Robinson came in 1993. Michael D. Higgins visited in 2012. As of 2023, its patrons include Ed Sheeran and Dermot O’Leary.
The London Irish Centre offers much more than just cultural events. They also offer library outreach. They deliver books to people’s homes. A volunteering program has expanded. It provides health and wellbeing advice. They deliver food parcels to vulnerable people. Telephone befriending supports those self-isolating. Advice and outreach services are available. They can support you with Irish passport and birth cert queries. Wellbeing Services are provided for older Irish people in London. The London Irish Centre also run social groups. Hardship grants are available.
The London Irish Centre stands as a beacon of Irish culture. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Irish community in London. As you leave, remember the words of Patrick Kielty. “The London Irish Centre embodies what Irish people do best – those that have, helping those that need”.