Freeman Family Centre reopens following major refurbishment

Children, young people and families can now enjoy a refurbished and more accessible community space following the reopening of the Freeman Family Centre in Roundwood.

Members of the Freeman family joined councillors, council staff, foster carers, kinship carers and community organisations at the centre on 11 September to mark its reopening and celebrate a new chapter for the much-loved facility.

The centre has undergone major improvements, including an extended kitchen, upgraded toilets, a redesigned internal layout, a new play area and a sensory room, creating a more welcoming and accessible space for children and families.

Cllr Jake Rubin, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Employment and Climate Action, said: “It was fantastic to see the Freeman Family Centre reopen and to celebrate with the Freeman family, local organisations and everyone who helped bring this much-loved facility back into use.

“As part of our wider work to strengthen support for children, young people and families across Brent, we are also bringing our Best Start Family Hub support services in-house from April 2027. This will give us a more integrated, Council-led approach, with stronger accountability and greater flexibility to respond to local needs.

“Here at the Freeman Family Centre, the refurbishment has created a modern, inclusive space where children and families can spend valuable time together and access a wider range of activities and support. I would like to thank the Freeman family, our staff, the steering group and all our partners for making the reopening such a special occasion.”

The centre is now managed by Brent Council’s Children, Young People and Community Development Directorate. Plans include after-school and holiday learning, music programmes, kinship support groups, services for care-experienced young people and other community activities.

Brent has worked with the Young Brent Foundation, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, community partners and young people’s services to broaden the centre’s offer. The steering group will provide ongoing governance and develop further partnerships with not-for-profit organisations.

The reopening marks a new chapter for the Freeman Family Centre, providing children, young people and families with an improved local space for activities, support and community connection.