BCF Background
Based in the area of London Borough of Barking and Dagenham (LBBD). BCF was set up in 2010 by residents to preserve Islamic values and to address civic and spiritual needs of the growing community, specifically Muslim, of the Longbridge ward of LBBD. BCF has established a long-standing reputation within the community in terms of service provision – addressing the spiritual, social, cultural and welfare needs of the Community in the Longbridge ward of LBBD. The organisation recognises that local people are a valuable resource and has developed a network of volunteers who are actively involved in its management and delivery of projects and activities for the local community. We aim to be transparent and have started to develop procedures that describe and define our administrative and financial activities and responsibilities. We have established a good track record, history, and confidence with the community via weekly Jumm’ah, Taraweeh , annual Eid prayers, Youth Project, and other services. We also work closely with the wider community and the local authority to further advance our aims and objectives.
Longbridge ward and its surrounding area have seen significant increase in new residents who are owner / occupiers of local properties. Overwhelming majority of those have moved into the area are Muslims. The major struggle and challenges they have is finding a place of prayer within the walking distance. No doubt there will be further migration to the ward hence placing a greater demand for a place of worship for the community. As it stands there is no proper place of daily worship within walking distance for the growing Muslim Community in Longbridge ward to perform their daily prayers hence BCF is working with the community to establish a place of worship in this ward to facilitate the growing needs of the local community.
Organisational and Governance Structure:
BCF is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) it has adopted a CIO membership model constitution on 13 October 2020. BCF is structured around an Executive Management Committee, also referred to as EXCO, which is an elected body at a Bi-annual General Meeting (BGM) by the members of the organisation.
Projects and Services:
BCF offers a range of services, including weekly Jummah prayers, development of a place of worship at Upney Community Centre, Taraweeh prayers at HCC, a youth project, weekly football coaching, educational seminars, Eid in the Park, annual community iftar gathering and more.