Stroud’s much-loved Trinity Rooms, a hub of welcome, wellbeing, and community activity since the 1860s, is launching a major campaign to bring the building into community ownership.
The historic building is home to a thriving community café, food bank, pantries, youth club, and a wide range of low-cost or donation-based activities—from repair cafés, yoga, and mother & baby singing to crafting, poetry, films, seed-saving, and dance. It also hosts groups such as Rethink Mental Illness, Earth Protector Communities, Atelier, Stroud Against Racism, and Stroud’s annual Christmas Day Meal.
But despite its vital role, the building’s future is uncertain.
The good news is that more than half of the funds needed for purchase are already in place: £100,000 pledged and a further £32,000 raised. Now the community must raise an additional £72,000 by Christmas 2025 to buy the building from the Church and secure it for generations to come.
“This is a moment to be seized,” said Trustee Fran Mosley. “We have over half the purchase price promised on the condition we raise the rest. Across the country, community spaces like this are being lost—we won’t let that happen in Stroud.”
The Trinity Rooms is more than just bricks and mortar—it is a lifeline. For many, it is a place to find food, friendship, and belonging.
“I come to the community café because I feel lonely. I am welcomed and feel at home. I’ve joined in now and help out there. Other people come because they need a free meal or are dealing with really difficult issues in their lives. It is such a positive space for everyone,” said Nathan, café user.
Trustee James Millar explained that the campaign is about more than survival: “Some of the things we need to do to care for the building will only become possible once we become the owners. Then we can concentrate on improving insulation, adding solar panels, and other works that will future-proof Trinity Rooms.”
“There are plenty of ways to get involved. However you help, you’ll be part of something that matters,” said Trustee Kat.
“We have the vision, we have the team, and we now have half the money—let’s not let this chance slip away,” added Fran.
Call to Action
The Trustees are appealing for the public’s support:
- Donate what you can—every contribution counts, whether £5 or £5,000.
- Spread the word and attend community events.
- Set up a regular donation to sustain the project.
Donations can be made at: www.stroudtrinityrooms.org/trinity-for-christmas
