Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that you may have questions about who we are, what we do, and how you can get involved. Below are answers to our most common questions.
CAVA – Caribbean African Voice Alliance – is a community-led organisation based in Brent. We operate the Centre of Excellence, a multi-purpose community hub designed to serve the diverse needs of our community. We deliver education, mental health and wellbeing, space hire and climate action programmes for children, young people and families.
We are located at 26 Manor Park Road, Harlesden, London NW10. We are a 5-minute walk from Willesden Junction Tube and Overground stations, and are well served by local bus routes 18, 266, 260, 232.
Our services are open to everyone. We are particularly focused on serving the diverse communities of Brent, with a special emphasis on children, young people and families from Black, African and Caribbean heritage backgrounds.
Our building is open:
- Monday–Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Sunday: Closed (available for private hire by arrangement)
We are located in Harlesden, close to local transport links:
- Tube/Overground: Harlesden Station – 5 minute walk
- Bus: Routes 18, 220, 260, 266, 487 stop nearby
- Car: Limited on-street parking is available
We offer a range of services across four key areas:
- Education and Skills: Saturday School, Employability Training, Fintech Workshops, AI and Technology Skills, Digital Literacy
- Mental Health and Wellbeing: Counselling Services, Youth Wellbeing Programmes, Family Support, Community Health Initiatives
- Space Hire: Main Hall, Rear Halls A & B, Meeting Rooms, Café Area, Innovation Hub
- Climate Action: Environmental Awareness, Sustainability Programmes, Outdoor Programmes and Events
Our services are open to everyone. We particularly focus on children, young people and families in Brent, especially those from Black, African and Caribbean heritage backgrounds.
Yes. We provide a range of services specifically for young people, including Saturday School, Employability Training, Fintech and AI workshops, Youth Wellbeing Programmes and mentoring support.
Yes. We have partner providers who provide professional counselling services for individuals of all ages, as well as group-based wellbeing programmes for young people and family support services.
To hire a space, please contact us at bookings@cavacoe.org. We will discuss your requirements, check availability and provide you with a quote.
- Main Hall: Large space for conferences, exhibitions, performances, weddings and parties
- Meeting Rooms: Smaller rooms for meetings, training and workshops
- Café Area: Welcoming space for networking and informal events
- Innovation Hub: Premium technology and innovation space for workshops and corporate events
Yes. We offer discounted rates for registered charities, community groups and non-profit organisations. Please contact us for more details.
Yes. We offer regular bookings for organisations, including block bookings and long-term hire arrangements. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Yes. We welcome viewings of our spaces before you book. Please contact us to arrange a convenient time.
Membership is free and open to everyone. Simply complete our membership form online or in person at the Centre of Excellence.
Yes. We currently offer free membership to all who wish to support our work and be part of our community.
- Regular updates on our work and events
- Priority booking for events and activities
- Opportunities to shape the direction of the organisation
- A voice in our annual general meetings
We offer a free membership tier currently. We may introduce premium membership options in the future, which will include additional benefits such as discounted space hire.
To volunteer, please express your interest by emailing volunteer@cavacoe.org. We will provide you with a registration form and arrange an informal chat to discuss opportunities.
We welcome volunteers with a wide range of skills, including:
- Reception and front of house
- Events support
- Administrative support
- Programme delivery
- Gardening and outdoor activities
Yes. All volunteers receive an induction and any necessary training for their role. We are committed to supporting our volunteers to develop their skills and confidence.
We offer flexible volunteering opportunities to suit your availability. Whether you can give a few hours a week or a few hours a month, we welcome your support.
Yes. We welcome group volunteering opportunities for corporate teams, community groups and schools. Please contact us to discuss how your group can support our work.
You can donate through our website, by bank transfer, or in person at the Centre of Excellence. Please contact us for details.
All donations support our programmes and services, including:
- Education and skills training
- Mental health and wellbeing support
- Space hire and community events
- Climate action programmes
Yes. We welcome individuals, groups and organisations who wish to fundraise on our behalf. Please contact us to discuss your ideas and how we can support you.
We welcome partnerships with statutory bodies, corporate organisations, foundations and community groups. Please contact us at partnerships@cavacoe.org to discuss how we can work together.
- Sponsorship of our Innovation Hub
- Funding for specific programmes
- Corporate volunteering days
- Strategic partnerships for service delivery
Yes. We are actively seeking funding for:
- Innovation Hub programmes
- Mental health services
- Youth programmes
- Building sustainability
Please contact us at info@cavacoe.org. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 2 working days.
Yes. We take all feedback seriously. If you have a complaint, please contact us at feedback@cavacoe.org and we will respond in accordance with our complaints procedure.
Please follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter. Links to our social media accounts are available on our website.
Yes. We welcome visitors to the Centre of Excellence. Please contact us to arrange a convenient time for your visit.