I thought I would email to say a massive thank you for all of your support over this last year. Your support has been invaluable to the police and also the VEO team and we are very lucky to have you especially in our moments where we are desperately trying to secure emergency accommodation or just help with travel costs for a fleeing victim. I do not know what we would have done without your support and guidance. One particular case stands out for me where you supported me with a Zimbabwean victim who was trying to flee her abusive relationship from her husband. She had visa issues and also very reliant upon her husband, but with our joint up approach the victim was in good hands and you happened to know of a Zimbabwean community who you put the victim in touch with, where she was offered help and support, was offered 121 support and was able to stay with another Zimbabwean female, you also managed to get her free legal advice around her visa.
This is just one of many examples where you have exceeded our expectations, so thank you again for all your hard work and support π.
I have used QPCO on several occasions and have been overwhelmed by the speed in which they have been able to arrange accommodation for vulnerable victims of rape / serious sexual offences. One of my victims had a chaotic lifestyle and was living in an unsafe and toxic situation and was then raped and sexually exploited. The second victim was in an abusive marriage and her husband had repeatedly raped / sexually abused her. After exploring various avenues for help with temporary housing (for the second victim I had been chasing Harrow housing for four days), I contacted QPCO very late in the day for both victims, and within ten minutes they had arranged hotel accommodation with breakfast. This allowed us the time to find a more appropriate and long term solution for both victims, getting them to a place of safety and ensuring relevant agencies were able to support both ladies. QPCO most certainly go the extra mile to support vulnerable people, offering both practical and emotional support, including food banks, interpreting, signposting etc. This is probably the most supportive voluntary agency I have worked with in a long time and their passion for vulnerable people is remarkable to see β we need more agencies like this to support the work we do because statutory services are stretched and cannot offer immediate support in many instances. Marie-Ange will make herself available at all hours β including late at night β to ensure a victim has food, clothing, toiletries etc. Every member of the QPCO family is kind, empathic and generous in both their time and energy β all a huge asset to Bedford.
Make a donation Get in touchJoin our community and connect with us on our other social media channels to stay in the loop with our latest news, events, and stories from people just like you - because everyone is welcome here!
π¨ Important Notice: Sunday 7 September 2025 β Emergency Alert Test π¨
The UK government will be testing its Emergency Alerts system. If your phone is compatible, it will:
-Sound a loud alarm (even if on silent)
- Vibrate
- Display a message
This will happen at 3pm and last about 10 seconds. You donβt need to do anything β itβs just a test.
π‘ For some, this could be distressing or even dangerous:
- People with sensory sensitivities
- Those experiencing domestic abuse with a hidden phone (see links to opt out)
Please take time to talk with the person you support about what to expect. Mencap has created a brilliant Easy Read guide to help with this.
π Government info: www.gov.uk/alerts
π Mencap Easy Read: mencap.org.uk/easyread/emergency-alert-test-government
Letβs help make this test safe and understood for everyone π
π¨ Important Notice: Sunday 7 September 2025 β Emergency Alert Test π¨
The UK government will be testing its Emergency Alerts system. If your phone is compatible, it will:
-Sound a loud alarm (even if on silent)
- Vibrate
- Display a message
This will happen at 3pm and last about 10 seconds. You donβt need to do anything β itβs just a test.
π‘ For some, this could be distressing or even dangerous:
- People with sensory sensitivities
- Those experiencing domestic abuse with a hidden phone (see links to opt out)
Please take time to talk with the person you support about what to expect. Mencap has created a brilliant Easy Read guide to help with this.
π Government info: www.gov.uk/alerts
π Mencap Easy Read: mencap.org.uk/easyread/emergency-alert-test-government
Letβs help make this test safe and understood for everyone π
πͺπ§© Another great Wednesday afternoon at the Welcoming Space!π§Άπ¨
This weekβs session had a lovely, relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of smiles and great conversations. Everyone really got stuck into the activities on offer. From biscuit decorating and paint stamping to puzzles and even a bit of crochet.
We were also pleased to give out 15 carbon monoxide monitors, provided as part of the project by Cadent, helping to keep our community safe and informed. Weβre also so grateful to Co-op Kempston for continuing to support us with food donations that bring people together week after week πβ€οΈ
π« This week marked the last session for some of our amazing young volunteers before they head back to school and college. A massive THANK YOU to all the young people who supported the Welcoming Space over the summer holidays. Your energy, kindness, and willingness to get involved have made such a difference. Weβll miss you, but we know youβll be doing great things this year, and we look forward to seeing you again next school holidays! ππ
A special thank you also goes to our brilliant volunteers who continue to support us week after week, your ongoing commitment keeps the space warm, welcoming, and full of life. ππ
If you havenβt joined us yet, why not pop in next Wednesday? Everyoneβs welcome β whether you`re coming to connect, create, play, or simply chill out.
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
π When? Every Wednesday, 1PM β 5PM
This space is made possible thanks to the dedication of volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and the QPCO team, proudly supported by the Living Well Fund (Cadent) and managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
#WelcomingSpace #CommunityConnection #ThankYouVolunteers #YoungVolunteers #BedfordCommunity #WeAreQPCO
πͺπ§© Another great Wednesday afternoon at the Welcoming Space!π§Άπ¨
This weekβs session had a lovely, relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of smiles and great conversations. Everyone really got stuck into the activities on offer. From biscuit decorating and paint stamping to puzzles and even a bit of crochet.
We were also pleased to give out 15 carbon monoxide monitors, provided as part of the project by Cadent, helping to keep our community safe and informed. Weβre also so grateful to Co-op Kempston for continuing to support us with food donations that bring people together week after week πβ€οΈ
π« This week marked the last session for some of our amazing young volunteers before they head back to school and college. A massive THANK YOU to all the young people who supported the Welcoming Space over the summer holidays. Your energy, kindness, and willingness to get involved have made such a difference. Weβll miss you, but we know youβll be doing great things this year, and we look forward to seeing you again next school holidays! ππ
A special thank you also goes to our brilliant volunteers who continue to support us week after week, your ongoing commitment keeps the space warm, welcoming, and full of life. ππ
If you havenβt joined us yet, why not pop in next Wednesday? Everyoneβs welcome β whether you`re coming to connect, create, play, or simply chill out.
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
π When? Every Wednesday, 1PM β 5PM
This space is made possible thanks to the dedication of volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and the QPCO team, proudly supported by the Living Well Fund (Cadent) and managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
#WelcomingSpace #CommunityConnection #ThankYouVolunteers #YoungVolunteers #BedfordCommunity #WeAreQPCO
βοΈπ¨ Looking for something to do over the summer holidays?
Why not visit the Welcoming Space β a free, friendly place open to everyone! Enjoy different free & fun childrenβs activities each week. From traditional board games and croquet to arts & crafts, creative play, and more! π§©πͺ
π
When? Every Wednesday
β° Time? 1PM β 5PM
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
No need to book! Just drop in and enjoy! Open to all β bring your friends and family for a welcoming community experience.
π This space is part of the Living Well Fund funded by Cadent. Run by the volunteers of Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
βοΈπ¨ Looking for something to do over the summer holidays?
Why not visit the Welcoming Space β a free, friendly place open to everyone! Enjoy different free & fun childrenβs activities each week. From traditional board games and croquet to arts & crafts, creative play, and more! π§©πͺ
π
When? Every Wednesday
β° Time? 1PM β 5PM
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
No need to book! Just drop in and enjoy! Open to all β bring your friends and family for a welcoming community experience.
π This space is part of the Living Well Fund funded by Cadent. Run by the volunteers of Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
πβ½ What a fantastic Wednesday afternoon we had at the Welcoming Space! πΆπ¨
There was loads going on for everyone! From lively games like football and swing ball to calm, creative activities like painting, colouring, and play dough. We even had some great tunes playing in the background to keep the energy up!
A massive shoutout to Co-op Kempston for their generous donation of food. It was so appreciated and really brought everyone together. πβ€οΈ
Weβre incredibly thankful to the dedicated volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and the amazing QPCO team who make this space feel so warm and inviting every single week.
If you havenβt popped in yet, why not stop by next Wednesday? Whether youβre coming with friends, family, or just fancy meeting new people, thereβs always something to enjoy.
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
π When? Every Wednesday, 1PM β 5PM
This space is made possible thanks to the hard work of volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Proudly supported by the Living Well Fund (Cadent) and managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
#WelcomingSpace #CommunityConnection #FamilyFun #BedfordCommunity #WeAreQPCO
πβ½ What a fantastic Wednesday afternoon we had at the Welcoming Space! πΆπ¨
There was loads going on for everyone! From lively games like football and swing ball to calm, creative activities like painting, colouring, and play dough. We even had some great tunes playing in the background to keep the energy up!
A massive shoutout to Co-op Kempston for their generous donation of food. It was so appreciated and really brought everyone together. πβ€οΈ
Weβre incredibly thankful to the dedicated volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and the amazing QPCO team who make this space feel so warm and inviting every single week.
If you havenβt popped in yet, why not stop by next Wednesday? Whether youβre coming with friends, family, or just fancy meeting new people, thereβs always something to enjoy.
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
π When? Every Wednesday, 1PM β 5PM
This space is made possible thanks to the hard work of volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Proudly supported by the Living Well Fund (Cadent) and managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
#WelcomingSpace #CommunityConnection #FamilyFun #BedfordCommunity #WeAreQPCO
βοΈπ¨ Looking for something to do over the summer holidays?
Why not visit the Welcoming Space β a free, friendly place open to everyone! Enjoy different free & fun childrenβs activities each week. From traditional board games and croquet to arts & crafts, creative play, and more! π§©πͺ
π
When? Every Wednesday
β° Time? 1PM β 5PM
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
No need to book! Just drop in and enjoy! Open to all β bring your friends and family for a welcoming community experience.
π This space is part of the Living Well Fund funded by Cadent. Run by the volunteers of Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
βοΈπ¨ Looking for something to do over the summer holidays?
Why not visit the Welcoming Space β a free, friendly place open to everyone! Enjoy different free & fun childrenβs activities each week. From traditional board games and croquet to arts & crafts, creative play, and more! π§©πͺ
π
When? Every Wednesday
β° Time? 1PM β 5PM
π Where? Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
No need to book! Just drop in and enjoy! Open to all β bring your friends and family for a welcoming community experience.
π This space is part of the Living Well Fund funded by Cadent. Run by the volunteers of Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
ποΈββοΈ Get Fit, Feel Good β Every Monday with QPCO! π³
Looking for a fun, friendly way to stay active? Our FREE weekly fitness classes are perfect for all levels. Whether you`re just starting out or looking to stay moving in a supportive space.
ποΈ Every Monday at 6:30 PM - 7:30PM
π Jubilee Park (Kingsbrook & Cauldwell Ward) Moulton Ave, Bedford, MK42 0WB
Why join in? πͺ
β’ A friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Come as you are and bring a friend!
β’ Ideal for all fitness levels. No experience, no problem.
β’ A boost for both physical wellβbeing and mental health. Our community-focused sessions were born out of pandemic support and continue to bring people together.
β‘οΈ Learn more in our Linktree bio
#QPCOFitness #BedfordCommunity #GetActive #Wellbeing #OutdoorWorkout #FreeFitness #CommunityWellness
ποΈββοΈ Get Fit, Feel Good β Every Monday with QPCO! π³
Looking for a fun, friendly way to stay active? Our FREE weekly fitness classes are perfect for all levels. Whether you`re just starting out or looking to stay moving in a supportive space.
ποΈ Every Monday at 6:30 PM - 7:30PM
π Jubilee Park (Kingsbrook & Cauldwell Ward) Moulton Ave, Bedford, MK42 0WB
Why join in? πͺ
β’ A friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Come as you are and bring a friend!
β’ Ideal for all fitness levels. No experience, no problem.
β’ A boost for both physical wellβbeing and mental health. Our community-focused sessions were born out of pandemic support and continue to bring people together.
β‘οΈ Learn more in our Linktree bio
#QPCOFitness #BedfordCommunity #GetActive #Wellbeing #OutdoorWorkout #FreeFitness #CommunityWellness
π Meet Cathrine! A long-time supporter of our work and someone whoβs turning her 50th birthday into a movement for good.
Sheβs taking on 10 Parkruns across the UK (and one in Amsterdam!) β 5K each β to total 50K before December, raising funds for Queenβs Park Community Organisation.
Her goal? To raise money for the vital work we do in Bedford and beyond. From youth support to community outreach, food aid, and wellbeing spaces.
Sheβs already completed 5 Parkruns:
π Bedford
π Edinburgh
π Henlow
π Jubilee Park
π Irthlingborough
And there are more on the way.
π Letβs show Cathrine that sheβs not running alone. Donate, cheer her on, or share her story. Every step she takes helps someone in our community take one too.
π Donations can made via our Linktree bio
#Cathrines50Kfor50 #fundraising #parkrun #weareqpco
π Meet Cathrine! A long-time supporter of our work and someone whoβs turning her 50th birthday into a movement for good.
Sheβs taking on 10 Parkruns across the UK (and one in Amsterdam!) β 5K each β to total 50K before December, raising funds for Queenβs Park Community Organisation.
Her goal? To raise money for the vital work we do in Bedford and beyond. From youth support to community outreach, food aid, and wellbeing spaces.
Sheβs already completed 5 Parkruns:
π Bedford
π Edinburgh
π Henlow
π Jubilee Park
π Irthlingborough
And there are more on the way.
π Letβs show Cathrine that sheβs not running alone. Donate, cheer her on, or share her story. Every step she takes helps someone in our community take one too.
π Donations can made via our Linktree bio
#Cathrines50Kfor50 #fundraising #parkrun #weareqpco
π We had such a great afternoon at the Welcoming Space this Wednesday!
There was something for everyone; traditional games, colourful play dough creations, relaxing reading, and some beautiful bookmark making ππ¨.
A huge thank you to our amazing staff and volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO for making this space so welcoming every single week.
If you havenβt visited yet, why not join us next Wednesday? Bring your friends, family, or neighbours and enjoy a relaxed afternoon together.
π
Every Wednesday
β° 1PM β 5PM
π Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
Brought to life by the volunteers of Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Proudly funded by the Living Well Fund (Cadent), and managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
#WelcomingSpace #FreeFamilyFun #BedfordEvents #CommunityMatters #WeAreQPCO
π We had such a great afternoon at the Welcoming Space this Wednesday!
There was something for everyone; traditional games, colourful play dough creations, relaxing reading, and some beautiful bookmark making ππ¨.
A huge thank you to our amazing staff and volunteers from Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO for making this space so welcoming every single week.
If you havenβt visited yet, why not join us next Wednesday? Bring your friends, family, or neighbours and enjoy a relaxed afternoon together.
π
Every Wednesday
β° 1PM β 5PM
π Bhagwan Valmik Mandir Community Centre, 10β12 Bunyan Road, Bedford, MK42 9JB
Brought to life by the volunteers of Bhagwan Valmiki Sabha Bedford and QPCO staff. Proudly funded by the Living Well Fund (Cadent), and managed by Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation.
#WelcomingSpace #FreeFamilyFun #BedfordEvents #CommunityMatters #WeAreQPCO