The Duchess of Cornwall visited the Pepper Pot Centre before lockdown began and heard how this hub for older people has supported and continues to support vulnerable members of the Kensington community throughout the pandemic. The Duchess spoke to isolated elders over zoom, helped pack the lunches and brought some brownies from the Palace for the food parcels. They were delicious, a real treat for many shielding at home. Her visit was lovely and cheered up both the members and the frontline workers.

The Pepper Pot Centre in Ladbroke Grove, London, was founded over 40 years ago by Pansy Jeffrey. Part of the Windrush generation, Pansy came to the UK from the Crown Colony of British Guiana at the invitation of the British government to help out post war Britain and the NHS.

Pansy soon noticed that life was tough for black people in Britain. So she set about against all odds setting up a cultural and social centre for people, 50 and over from the African Caribbean community where they could meet, eat and reminisce about their beautiful islands so far away

The Duchess’ visit follows two historic visits by Her Majesty The Queen who has visited The Centre twice. In recognition of its enduring contribution to public service, the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea honoured the Centre with a 2021 Mayors Award.