Community hub for mid-Norfolk church plant

A new church in Swaffham, planted by the Fountain of Life Church in Ashill during the aftermath of the Covid restrictions, has now blossomed into a thriving community hub.

The church plant was initially launched in response to social distancing restrictions imposed during the pandemic. With the Ashill building limited to just 70 people under health guidelines, church leadership made the strategic decision to establish a second location in Swaffham. What began in a local community centre has since grown into a thriving congregation and a bustling local hub, and has flourished into a vibrant centre for worship and community life.
 
Today, the church gathers in a building rented from Swaffham Town Council—a former school facility that once housed the drama, art and music departments. The space includes multiple meeting rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a small theatre that has been repurposed for Sunday worship as well as concerts, events, and community activities. A pottery room complete with a functioning kiln also sits ready for future creative ventures.
 
Over the past six months, the venue has steadily become a hive of community engagement. Regular weekly initiatives now include a parent-and-toddler group, a craft group, a youth hangout, family nights, and a warm space for those seeking companionship or a place to relax. One particularly popular addition is Heartstrings, a Friday afternoon musical gathering designed to bring together people who might otherwise feel isolated.
 
The church has also hosted its first theatrical production and is planning additional concerts. Looking ahead to May, the church will launch Our Place—a new initiative providing a welcoming space for individuals with special needs to enjoy crafts, films, and refreshments in a supportive environment. Additional programmes in development include a group for young carers and Who Let the Dads Out? - a Saturday morning event offering breakfast and a time for fun designed for kids and their dads.
 
Recently, the church hosted The Easter Experience, an interactive event designed to bring the Easter story to life. Seven local schools booked to take part, with pupils exploring the themes of Easter through craft, storytelling, and creative reflection. The event was warmly received by both students and staff, and marked another milestone in the church’s growing relationship with the wider community. A summer programme is also in the works to ensure the church’s provision continues through the school holidays.
 
A key driver behind many of these projects is Tanya Lynn, who joined the team in September 2024 as the church’s Children, Youth and Families Worker. Her post was made possible by a generous one-year grant, and she has played a central role in expanding the church's outreach and programming. The church is now actively fundraising in the hope of extending her position, recognizing the significant impact her work has already had on the Swaffham community.
 
Rev'd Paul Wilkinson, Senior Minister at Fountain of Life Church in Ashill, said “What began as a response to pandemic restrictions has evolved into a lasting legacy—one that is building bridges, creating community, and offering hope to many in the heart of Swaffham and beyond. The doors are open to everyone, and all are welcome to come along.”
 
 If you would like to support the work of the church, and in particular support Tanya’s  ongoing work, please contact: admin@folchurch.co.uk or call 01760 441902.
 
The photo of the FoL Swaffham team is courtesy of Freedom of Life Church.

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