MEMBERS from a community group are celebrating after winning a battle to save their services plus more than 50 jobs. 

After moving into the site at Brimscombe Mill in 2021, the social enterprises which are part of the Grace Network such as the Long Table, Kids Stuff, Furniture Bank and the Bike Drop, had spent the last six months looking for another home after it emerged in March that the site was set to be sold.

These social enterprises, which were also moved out of their base at Brimscombe Port just over two years ago due to its redevelopment by Stroud District Council, had until August when their lease expires to find a new location. 

Members from the group have now revealed that they are going to be staying at Brimscombe Mill permanently after securing a long-term lease. 

Brimscombe Mill is the home of four social enterprises such as The Long Table, Kids Stuff, Bike Drop and The Home Remedy

A post on Wednesday evening read: "After months of uncertainty, we are thrilled to announce that Brimscombe Mill is officially our forever home!

"Thanks to the generous support of an investor, a new sale has been completed, and we now have a long-term lease.

"This means we can continue to see our community grow and thrive in the place we love.

"This incredible outcome is the result of massive goodwill from all sides: our previous landlord, our supportive community, and, of course, the generosity of the investor.

"To say we are excited, thankful, and hugely relieved is an understatement—this is far more than we could have imagined!"

Jo Mansell, at Brimscombe Mill, said: "The incredible work to save Brimscombe Mill wouldn't have been possible without this epic community.

"Your support, love, and active involvement makes all the difference.

"Thank you for massively showing up the way you have."

Visitors to Brimscombe Mill have shared heartfelt sentiments about the space:

One said: "The first place like this I've ever felt truly at home."

Another said: “When I was sad alone in my grief you offered me relief, you gave me a place.

One said: "Brimscombe Mill has completed me in a way I never thought possible.

"You are the family I never had, the friends I care for dearly and the community I have always craved.

"You are humans, never perfect, but always have your arms open.”

A party is being organised on Saturday, October 26 at the Mill which is described as a 'celebration for everyone to savour this precious moment'.

Ed Sauven said: "We're inviting the community to engage with us and help craft an inspiring future for Brimscombe Mill.

"We can’t wait to party with you and embark on this exciting journey together."