Charity fears vandalism was a targeted attack

PARCA says the centre remains open as a "safe space" despite the incidents

A charity that supports refugees and asylum seekers fears recent incidents of vandalism against its centre have been targeted attacks.

Peterborough Asylum and Refugee Community Association (PARCA) on Northfield Road runs a drop-in centre and offers support to migrant communities such as language classes, housing advice and children's workshops .

Moez Nathu, the charity's co-founder, said garden equipment and furniture and a section of its outdoor area had been damaged during two recent incidents of vandalism.

He said the incidents were "disappointing" and felt they were " targeted attacks", but the centre has remained open as a "safe space for the communities".

The damage would cost about £3,000 to repair, he added.

Several pieces of outdoor equipment were displaced and damaged, the charity said

The first incident took place on 25 August and the second was recorded on CCTV on 31 August, Mr Nathu said.

He added: "You come to the centre in the morning and do not know what to expect.

"We do a lot of work with diverse communities - some people come to us in desperate situation and we offer as appropriate help we can.

"But these incidents feel like we have been targeted.

"The centre has remained open and I want to reassure everyone it remains a safe space for everyone to come and seek help."

Mr Nathu said he reported the incidents to Cambridgeshire Police and has been engaging with its Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Moez Nathu has appealed to the community to get in touch with information regarding the incidents at the centre

The charity, which was founded in 2013, relies on funding and is supported by staff, volunteers and trustees.

Between March 2024-25, the charity said nearly 4,200 people were offered help at the centre with language classes, IT skill support and drop-in sessions for women.

Mr Nathu said the charity may have to "find ways of cutting back" as their round of funding - which is made up of a combination of National Lottery grants and fundraisers - will be coming to an end within the next three months.

Mr Nathu said: "Without the adequate funding we will not be able to provide the vital services.

"We will have to reduce the numbers of staff and also reduce the centre's opening hours to maybe two-and-a-half days a week.

"This will have a significant impact on the communities that rely on us.

"And these vandalism incidents add to the pressure we are facing. It is not good."

Cambridgeshire Police said: "We received a report of trespassers at the Unity Hall, Northfield Road, Millfield, Peterborough, at about 01:00 GMT [on 1 September]. No criminal offences were reported."

The force added its local Neighbourhood Policing Team has been informed and have been continuing investigations.