05 May 2026
A community hub that has supported more than 3,000 people into further education, skills and employment is marking its 20th anniversary in the heart of Bridgeton.
The Bridgeton Community Learning Campus (BCLC) has spent two decades helping local residents build confidence, tackle social isolation and access new opportunities, playing a key role in the regeneration of Glasgow’s east end.
To celebrate the milestone, local residents, partners and community groups came together on Friday to reflect on the campus’s impact and the lives it has helped transform.
Among them is Kwasi, who is on the autism spectrum and has ADHD. After initially struggling with low confidence and self-esteem, he started a placement with BCLC and quickly developed his skills and confidence in the workplace. His progress has since led to a further opportunity with another charity, and he is now being considered for paid employment.
Lesley Ward, Centre Manager at BCLC, said: “Kwasi’s journey shows what can happen when people are given the right support and opportunity. His confidence has grown enormously, and he’s now in a position where paid employment is within reach, something that once felt out of grasp.
“That’s what BCLC is all about, helping people realise their potential and take positive steps forward.”
Alongside employability support, the campus provides a vital social lifeline for many in the community. Weekly activities such as chair yoga classes, attended by more than 30 people, and the All Abilities Club help improve both physical wellbeing and social connection.
Regular attendee Alice Gallacher, 103, has lived in Bridgeton all her life and continues to take part in community activities at the campus each week, reflecting the important role it plays across generations.
The campus also offers a wide range of groups and services, from digital skills and youth programmes to a recently opened sensory room, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of the community.
Funded by partners including Glasgow City Council, the Robertson Trust and Clyde Gateway, the BCLC is seen as a key community asset supporting long-term regeneration in the area.
Natalie Phillips, Senior Manager - Sustainable Communities at Clyde Gateway, said: “For 20 years, the Bridgeton Community Learning Campus has been at the heart of the local community, creating opportunities and bringing people together .
“Clyde Gateway is proud to support this vital community asset which is integral in creating opportunities and spaces for local people to come together and try new things. This is a vital component of our work to regenerate the east end of Glasgow.
“Looking ahead, the campus aims to build on its success by continuing to tackle poverty, support lifelong learning and help people adapt to a changing economy. ”
Lesley, went on to say: “Over 20 years we have supported thousands of people to contribute more positively to their local community, helped tackle social isolation, and created a growing sense of civic pride in Bridgeton.
“It was great to celebrate this milestone with the local community on Friday and reminisce about different events over the years.
“But we don’t want to stop here. We have a key role to play in tackling poverty and helping people to adapt to the changing economy through lifelong learning, digital skills, and tailored employment pathways.”
