Dunfermline Community Hub

FROM VISION TO REALITY: FORBO’S SUPPORT OF NEW DUNFERMLINE COMMUNITY HUB

As part of its commitment to local communities, Forbo Flooring Systems has supported the construction of the new Dunfermline Community Support Hub in Scotland, with the donation of a range of its flooring solutions, including Tessera carpet tiles and Allura luxury vinyl tiles, contributing to the creation of a welcoming and contemporary community space.

Delivered by Fife Voluntary Action (FVA) and supported by Citizens Advice and Rights Fife, Kingdom Community Bank, Fife Council and a range of third sector providers, the new Dunfermline Community Support Hub was officially opened in February 2024. A multi-purpose centre, the hub provides a range of free services to the local community, including advice and information, crisis support, budgeting and financial management, and employment support.

The hub also has a volunteering ‘shop’, encouraging people to sign-up to volunteer with local charities and organisations.

Spearheading the project was Kenny Murphy, Chief Executive at FVA, who had the vision of creating a professional and welcoming community space. Kenny sought the support of local businesses to help bring the hub to life; including Forbo Flooring Systems, whose linoleum factory has been in operation in Fife since 1847 and has a long-standing Fife heritage.

Speaking about the project, Kenny, said: “In line with its recently granted city status, Dunfermline is a fast-growing community. As such, I knew it was important that we provided residents with easy access to support, resources and a safe space, such as this. I’m incredibly proud of the new Dunfermline Community Support Hub – we were able to secure a large, central location and it looks really professional, providing people with the confidence and encouragement needed to step inside, take a look around and seek the help they need.

“When it came to choosing the flooring for the project, I was already aware of Forbo through our connections with Kirkcaldy, where they have their linoleum factory. As such, I decided to reach out to them and see if they would be willing to help. The response and subsequent support has been excellent.

“Working with Phillipa, Business Area Manager at Forbo, she was able to provide me with recommendations on the products that would be best suited to the space in terms of durability, performance and aesthetics. Another consideration for me was that we were able to create an inclusive and accessible space for all, and Phillipa was able to offer expert advice on achieving this.”

Forbo donated a range of its flooring solutions for installation across the Community Hub’s ground floor, including its Tessera carpet tiles (commonly installed within commercial office and education environments) for the hub’s corridors and office spaces. While Forbo’s Allura LVT flooring was laid in the main reception area and Surestep safety vinyl flooring in the toilets.

Kenny continued: “I’m absolutely delighted to have had the support from Forbo. Their advice, recommendations and high-quality flooring have helped to really bring the hub to life, providing the clean, professional and contemporary look and feel that I was hoping to achieve. The feedback so far, from local charities, Council officers and members, volunteers and visitors, has been really positive – I’m very happy with it.”

To learn more about Forbo’s work with charities and communities, visit here . Or to find out more about the Dunfermline Community Support Hub, visit: www.fva.org/hub