Oban’s Rockfield Centre is calling for volunteers and “debt forgiveness” with creditors to “save the dream”, amid a “serious and severe financial challenge” caused by the economic downturn and a lack of funding.
Oban Communities Trust (OCT), the driving force behind the Rockfield Centre, revealed its “current financial challenges” in a statement to The Oban Times ahead of a meeting in the Rowan Room Café on Tuesday December 13.
“As an organisation committed to fostering community engagement and cultural enrichment, we find ourselves in a difficult position due to the economic crisis and a lack of anticipated funding for our charitable endeavours,” it said.
The trust was established in 2014 following a community campaign to buy and save the former Rockfield Primary School building, and turn it into a cultural hub. OCT gained ownership in 2015, and sourced funding worth £2.9 million to complete capital works. Staff moved in and doors opened in 2021.
“The Rockfield Centre, a dream that has thrived on the collective efforts of our community, is currently grappling with financial strains that threaten its sustainability,” the statement continued.
“The economic downturn has impacted our ability to secure the necessary funds to maintain the vibrant programmes and services that have become synonymous with the Rockfield Centre.
“In these challenging times, we are reaching out to our community and beyond, seeking support to ensure the continued success of the Rockfield dream. We are exploring various avenues to navigate this financial crisis and are actively encouraging individuals, businesses, and organisations to come forward and join hands with us.”
The trust first called for volunteers.
“At the heart of the Rockfield Centre, we believe in the transformative power of community involvement, and we invite you to be a driving force behind the Rockfield dream. Your time and skills are invaluable, and we are actively seeking passionate individuals to join our dedicated team of volunteers.
“Whether you have a flair for event planning, a talent for fundraising, marketing prowess, or a passion for maintaining a welcoming space through cleaning and maintenance, your unique skills can make a significant impact. By volunteering, you become an essential part of the daily operations, contributing to the vibrant life of the Rockfield Centre.
“Your commitment will not only help overcome current challenges but will also contribute to the continued success of the Rockfield Centre in enriching the lives of those we serve. Together, let’s make a lasting difference and ensure the Rockfield Centre remains a beacon of community spirit.”
Secondly, it asked creditors to forgive its debts.
“Recognising the severity of our financial situation, we are initiating a Debt Forgiveness Campaign to seek relief from the companies, individuals, and small businesses that the Rockfield Centre owes.
“We understand the strain economic uncertainties can have on everyone, and we would like your help during these challenging times. If you are a creditor, partner, or supporter of the Rockfield Centre and find it within your means to contribute to this initiative, we invite you to engage in a dialogue with us.
“Your willingness to consider debt forgiveness will not only alleviate our immediate financial burden but will also play a crucial role in allowing us to redirect resources toward sustaining the Rockfield Centre’s invaluable contributions to our community. We are eager to discuss potential avenues for debt forgiveness and explore mutually beneficial solutions.
“In addition, we are actively seeking support from the broader community. Whether through volunteering, spreading awareness, or making donations, your involvement is vital to ensuring the continued success of the Rockfield Centre. Together, we can overcome these financial challenges and keep the Rockfield dream alive.
“We want to assure our community that we are doing everything in our power to preserve the Rockfield Centre’s legacy and impact. Your support, whether through volunteering or participating in our debt forgiveness campaign, is instrumental in navigating these challenging times. To get involved or learn more about how you can support the Rockfield Centre, please contact [us].
“Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Rockfield dream.”
Argyll and Bute MSP Jenni Minto said: “I’m a firm supporter of the Rockfield Centre and value all the great work they undertake on behalf of the community. We will all work together to help rescue the centre and ensure this vital asset keeps serving the community.”
In September, Oban’s Rockfield Centre said it needed one last push to achieve selling £200,000 worth of community shares to go ahead with next stage plans for a sensory room, recording studio, new outdoor performance area and a scheme to turn the bike sheds into a traditional skills work hub.
The bonds were being sold for £5,000 each over 10 years at an interest rate of four per cent per year, with the public being told they could earn back £2,000 per bond.
A £6,000 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund was also secured towards the costs of the sensory room.
At Tuesday’s meeting, the OCT’s interim chairperson Richard Wilson told a packed room: “Over the past month, [we] have worked together to construct a business plan for our future based on realistic financial projections that will give an annual surplus on top of meeting our obligations to bond- and share-holders.
“It will allow us to meet our financial obligations to all outstanding creditors if you can work with us.”