At First People CIC, we believe in second chances.
Every day, we support individuals in Hatfield and Welwyn Garden City as they rebuild their lives after trauma, homelessness, substance misuse, or involvement with the criminal justice system. Our approach is community-based, trauma-informed, and grounded in the belief that with the right support, anyone can turn a corner.
Now, we’re taking the next step — and we need your help.
From Garden to Growth
Earlier this year, our clients began building the Hatfield Community Garden — a peaceful, welcoming space designed to reduce social isolation, grow fresh food, and bring people together. It’s already sowing the seeds of connection and confidence.
But our ambition goes beyond the garden. We’re ready to grow into something even greater — a true hub for the community.
Our Vision: Woodhall Community Centre
We’re bidding to purchase and transform Woodhall Community Centre in Welwyn Garden City — and turn it into a dynamic, inclusive space that meets real local needs.
Our vision includes:
✅ Affordable co-working desks for local enterprise
✅ Clubs and spaces for older people to combat loneliness
✅ Budgeting, cooking and life skills workshops
✅ Youth and adult learning to support employment
✅ A welcoming mental health drop-in space and community café
✅ Counselling, trauma support, and therapeutic recovery services
✅ A joined-up space where local agencies can work together
All under one roof. All created with the community, for the community.
How You Can Help
We’ve joined the Welwyn Hatfield Community Lottery as a fundraising partner.
- 🎟 Tickets cost just £1 a week
- 💙 60p from every ticket supports local causes
- 💰 You could win up to £25,000 every Saturday
By selecting First People CIC as your chosen cause, you’ll help us take the next step toward securing the Woodhall Centre and building something lasting.
🎯 Our first milestone? Just 50 tickets a week — enough to raise £1,300 annually.
Want to Be Part of It?
Here’s how you can help right now:
🔗 Buy a £1 ticket – support First People CIC
📤 Share the link with friends, family or local groups
📣 Talk about the bid — every voice makes a difference
🤝 If you’re a business or partner, get in touch to collaborate
Thank You
This is about more than a building.
It’s about healing, hope, and human connection.
With your support, we can transform a disused community centre into a vibrant local lifeline.
Thank you for believing in second chances. And thank you for being part of our story.
🎟 Play the Lottery — Support Our Bid
welhatcommunitylottery.co.uk/support/first-people-woodhall-community-centre