our story
Our History: A Legacy of Community Support
At Romney Marsh Community Hub, we have a rich history of serving the Romney Marsh community.
From humble beginnings to the thriving hub we are today, our commitment to supporting older people and those in need has never wavered.
An RMCH Timeline…
1975
Age Concern Hythe and Romney Marsh was established.
A small Pop-In service was launched at the Methodist Hall in New Romney High Street, offering a place for older people to meet, socialise, and access support. This service quickly grew, with satellite offices in Dymchurch, Dungeness, and Lydd.
1980
Demand had risen so much that a decision was made to focus solely on the needs of Romney Marsh. This led to the creation of Age Concern Romney Marsh, marking the beginning of a local movement dedicated to the community.
With support from Shepway District Council, a wooden building—formerly mobile classrooms—was secured as a temporary space. Though intended as a short-term solution, it remained in use for over a decade while the search for a permanent home continued.
1992
Finding a suitable, affordable site proved challenging. A major breakthrough came in 1992, when a local landowner agreed to sell a plot for development. With backing from Kent County Council Social Services, Shepway District Council, and the Rural Development Commission, fundraising began to turn the dream into a reality.
May 1992
A fundraising appeal was launched, aiming to raise £210,000.
1993
Progress stalled due to financial shortfalls, leading to a leadership change.
August 1993
A new Executive Committee was elected, bringing renewed focus and momentum.
November 1994
The brand-new Romney Marsh Day Centre officially opened on Rolfe Lane, marking a new chapter in our history.
2004
A major extension was completed, and Rt Hon. Michael Howard MP opened the Romney Marsh Rehabilitation Centre.
March 2020
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Romney Marsh Day Centre quickly adapted to become the Romney Marsh Community Support Hub, ensuring vulnerable people had access to food, medical support, and essential services.
2021
Opened first charity shop in Rye
June 2021
Recognising the success and impact of the Community Support Hub, the charity was officially renamed the Romney Marsh Community Hub (RMCH), reflecting our broader role in the community.
2022
Royal Visit from HRH Duke of Gloucester in recognition of the work we did during the pandemic.
May 2023
New CEO starts
December 2023
Second charity shop opens in New Romney
August 2024
Hub on the Beach opens
October 2024
Launched the Marsh Bee service
2025
Celebrating 50 years of serving the Romney Marsh Community
OUR ROOTS IN AGE CONCERN
The Age Concern movement dates back to 1940, when concerns about older people’s welfare during wartime led to the formation of a dedicated support network. Over the decades, this evolved into Age Concern England and later merged with Age UK.
While many local Age Concern groups joined The Federation of Age UK, Age Concern Romney Marsh chose to remain independent. This decision allowed us to stay fully focused on providing hands-on, local services tailored to the unique needs of the Romney Marsh community.
LOOKING AHEAD
Our story is one of growth, resilience, and community spirit. We are proud of our journey and excited for the future, as we continue to serve Romney Marsh with compassion, dedication, and innovation.
Would you like to be part of our story? Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or supporting our services, you can help make a real difference.
“This charity has been a lifeline. I’ve made friends, gained confidence, and finally feel like I belong.”
A Community Member
OUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE
By 2029, we aim to make Romney Marsh an even better place to live.
Here’s what we are striving for:
Expanding our services, especially for dementia and mental health support.
Developing new spaces, like the Hub on the Beach.
Providing more transport options for those in need.
Building stronger partnerships with local organisations.
Opening a third Sunflower Charity Shop to help fund our services.
We take pride in being one of the largest employers in Romney Marsh and are dedicated to growing alongside our community.