Fifteen Years On: A Community Anchor in Goldthorpe

In September 2009, the Coalfields Regeneration Trust awarded a grant of £161,175 to help Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church purchase a permanent home — a bold investment in a small but growing community hub.

Fifteen years later, the building remains at the heart of local life.

This July, Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church marked its 15th anniversary with a vibrant community celebration, attended by families, volunteers, church members, and local partners — including CRT’s Yorkshire Regional Development Manager, Lynn Utting, who was there to reflect on the journey.

“CRT are incredibly proud to have played a part in this story,” said Lynn. “When CRT first funded this project in 2009, it was about believing in a group of people who were already doing great work — and giving them the stability to grow it.”

That stability has made all the difference.

From One Room to a Whole Community

When Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church first opened the doors of their newly purchased building in 2010, it offered a single accessible space for community worship and local activities. Since then, it’s grown into a trusted venue where families find friendship, connection, and vital early years support.

One of the church’s most valued offers is its parent and toddler group, which provides a welcoming space for local parents and carers to gather, share experiences, and let little ones play in a safe and nurturing environment.

CRT has continued to support this provision over the years with additional small grants.

A Celebration of Sustained Impact

The recent 15th anniversary event brought that impact the building is having on the local community to life. With homemade food, children’s activities, shared stories, and plenty of laughter, it served as a proud moment of reflection for all those who’ve contributed to the church’s success over the years.

Visitors were invited to tour the building, meet volunteers, and learn about the different ways Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church serves the local community — from food distribution and clothing support to seasonal events and wellbeing activities.

But more than that, the event was a testament to what long-term support makes possible.

Why It Matters

In coalfield communities like Goldthorpe, buildings like this do more than host activities.

The CRT’s early investment gave Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church the security it needed to establish itself. In the years since, the church has become a constant presence for local people — offering not just services, but stability, compassion, and connection.

This 15-year-long story speaks directly to the purpose of CRT Support: backing grassroots organisations and ensuring that local people have the tools and spaces they need to thrive — not just in the short term, but for the long haul.

Find out more about our membership and support for organisations in coalfield communities here.