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background and history

Established in 1997 the Hackney Marsh Partnership grew out of the work of the Hackney Marsh Team parish of Anglican Churches (St Barnabas Homerton, All Soul's Clapton Park estate, and Christ Church Kingsmead estate).

Today Hackney Marsh Partnership recognises the diversity within the community. We are committed to being accessible, open and inclusive to all people regardless of age, gender, orientation, ethnic origin, faith or political belief.

Context

When established, 90% of residents in Homerton and Hackney Wick were in rented social housing accommodation. Large estates were synonymous with poor housing, unemployment, vandalism, drug dealing and burglaries creating a climate of fear and anxiety. Tenant associations were often under resourced, and inactive. Residents had no mechanism to confront structural issues of disadvantage. Communities were isolated with few amenities, public transport or infrastructure.

The Hackney factor

London Borough of Hackney's financial crisis led to massive cuts to voluntary and statutory sector budgets, eroding key services. This undermined community development and regeneration strategies.

Christian roots

In 1995 the Hackney Marsh Team of Anglican Churches managed four projects. In 1996 the Churches established the Hackney Marsh Partnership as a charity and limited company with four projects as key elements.

The Hackney Marsh Partnership management board delegated management responsibility to four sub-committees, which functioned as management committees.

Organisational development

By 1998 three remaining projects within Hackney Marsh Partnership (one had closed) had developed complex, diverse cultures and histories within distinct geographical areas. Each had key personalities driving distinct agendas. The projects were developing at different speeds, with work growing in various directions. It was overly complex.

Church

Churches have often pioneered vital community activities or services in communities confronting difficult circumstances. The Hackney Marsh Partnership is a good example. Today, Hackney Marsh Partnership is committed to a non-partisan approach, encouraging access and involvement from the whole community.

Growth

In February 2000, following process of consultation, Hackney Marsh Partnership began a process of restructuring. Andy Turner – formerly Community Development Worker at the Kabin was appointed Projects Director (later Chief Executive Officer) and Finance Worker were appointed in May 2000. A new Hackney Marsh Partnership management committee was finally established in February 2002.

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