After receiving a £25,000 Community Asset Fund grant from Test Valley Borough Council in March 2024, the Koala Community Hub in Andover has officially opened its doors, providing invaluable support to autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families. Located at 83 High Street, the hub has transformed an empty Chantry Centre unit into a vibrant and inclusive space offering a range of activities and resources tailored to the needs of the neurodiverse community.
To celebrate the opening, the Koala Community Hub hosted two events: a special open day on Saturday, attended by local families, supporters, and dignitaries, including St Mary’s Ward Councillors Iris Andersen and Jan Budzynski, as well as the council’s Chief Executive Andy Ferrier, Mayor Ian Jeffrey, and his wife; and a similar event on Monday evening from 4–6 pm. These gatherings provided attendees with the opportunity to explore the facilities, learn about the hub’s services, and understand the impact of community funding on such initiatives.
Councillor Iris Andersen remarked, “This is exactly what the Community Asset Fund is about—helping organisations like this create spaces that make a lasting impact. Seeing the Koala Community Hub now open in the High Street shows how targeted funding can genuinely benefit our community.”
Councillor Jan Budzynski added, “We’re proud to have supported More Education in bringing this much-needed hub to Andover. It’s fantastic to see how the space is helping autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families feel supported and connected.”
The success of the Koala Community Hub underscores the dedication of local councillors who have been actively involved in supporting this project over time. In addition to the Community Asset Fund grant, St Mary’s Ward Councillors Andersen and Budzynski previously awarded a £750 community grant in January 2024 to assist with the hub’s relocation project. This ongoing collaboration highlights the council’s commitment to initiatives that foster inclusivity and support within the community.
For more information about the Koala Community Hub, visit
For details on the Community Asset Fund, please contact your Community Engagement Officer at www.testvalley.gov.uk/ceofficers
