RAF Waddington opens new community centre play park transformed by £96k refurb

On 28 September, RAF Waddington opened its new community centre. Named after Aircraftwoman Pip Beck, a WAAF radio operator during the Second World War, the Pip Beck Centre will significantly enhance welfare and community provision at the station. 

RAF Waddington welcomed the Honorary Air Commodore, HRH The Earl of Wessex KG GCVO ADC, to the opening of the Pip Beck Centre. The new £2.9M facility provides services including a coffee shop, HIVE Information, access to social work practitioners, Chaplaincy services, Citizen's Advice and the Service Community Support Officer and it is also home to a number of groups such as Brownies and Guides, the station’s Airplay Youth Club, parenting classes and yoga classes.    

The RAF Benevolent Fund provided a generous grant of over £100,000 which was used to fit out the centre with a range of quality furnishings and equipment. Now used daily, the Pip Beck Centre is accessible and provides an attractive and welcoming venue for all community members.

Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, Controller at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "I'm thrilled we've been able to support the refurbishment of the Pip Beck Centre at RAF Waddington. This new dedicated community space will have a significant impact on the wellbeing of those based out of the station - not only personnel but their partners and children too. The facility will form an integral part of RAF Waddington for many years to come and highlights the Fund's commitment to supporting the serving RAF community on RAF stations across the country."