UB40 tour bus is now Torbay community centre

It's homely, girl

The former tour bus used by pop band UB40 is being turned into a mobile community centre in Torbay.

Community interest company RE4orm has bought the vehicle and is now looking for help to convert it for use in a programme to tackle child poverty.

The organisers are launching the project on Monday 26 October and are appealing for volunteers including plumbers, carpenters, electricians, painter/decorators, artists, floor fitters, architects, designers and sign writers.

RE4orm founder Katie Cavanna said: “We have purchased UB40’s old tour bus, to convert it into a mobile community hub. Although the renovation process has been delayed due to covid-19, we are excited to get the community hub completed and on the road, supporting families across Torbay. 

“The mobile hub will be equipped with a library, meeting areas and kitchen – designed to bring support right to your front door. We need your help with this. We are looking for a team of tradespeople to help us fit the bus out. Think DIY SOS – without Nick Knowles. This mobile community centre is the community’s and we would love it to be shaped by everyone within it. 

“We’re looking for architects, designers, electricians, painters and decorators. We promise you this is going to be something incredibly special. If you’re interested in helping with the renovation of the bus and transforming it into a unique mobile community centre, please get in touch.”

UB40's former tour bus as a Torbay community hub is food for thought

The community interest company was launched in October 2019 as a response to the high level of child poverty in Torbay, working with schools, business and charities to reduce poverty and raise aspirations. It has worked with businesses during the coronavirus pandemic to deliver thousands of meals to families and run projects including a Christmas gift appeal and school uniform swap. Almost 6,000 children in Torbay – three out of 10 – are in families defined as living in poverty.

Ms Cavanna said: “Our aim is to work with the community to alleviate child poverty in Torbay. RE4orm provides accessible early help provision for both children and families.  UBThrough multi-agency partnership working, our aim is to work with families and communities at the first point of need and maximise opportunities for them to achieve their potential without the use of long-term support or intervention.”

Anyone wanting to volunteer can find out more at the website https://www.re4orm.org.uk/