About the Chinese Community Centre

The London Chinese Community Centre aims to improve the quality of life and well being of the Chinese Community in Britain, particularly those who are disadvantaged. [Click here for more information about our aims].

We are based in Gerrard Street, in the heart of London's Chinatown. We are open seven days a week and provide a wide range of information, advice and training services plus social and community activites. [Click here for more information about our services].

The London Chinese Community Centre is open to all and you are welcome to drop in and visit us. [Click here to find out where we are and our opening times].

History of the London Chinese Community Centre

The London Chinese Community Centre was established in London's Chinatown in 1980. This was the first community facility for the Chinese Community in Britain, providing advocacy, social support, guidance and advice services. In its first year the Centre received almost 1,000 requests for support. This high level of demand, combined with the rapid establishment of similar centres in other areas of London and across the UK, confirmed the need for a community base and support services for the Chinese Community. Since then, the London Chinese Community Centre has been a focal point for London's Chinese community, providing an evolving range of community and social services.

In 1992 the London Chinese Community Centre moved to its current premises at 28/29 Gerrard Street on a 10 year lease. These larger premises have enabled the Centre to expand its range of activites as well as increasing the number of people who can use them.

Chinese people in the UK

The 2001 census identified a total Chinese population in the UK of 247,403. This represents 0.4% of the national population and 5.3% of the national ethnice minority population. Of the total Chinese population, 80,203 (about 36%) live in London. Almost half of London's Chinese population live in inner London, in comparison with less than 40% on London's total population. Almost 20% of London's Chinese population live in three London boroughs; Barnet, Southwark and Westminster.

The London Chinese Community Centre undertakes research into key issues for Chinese communities in the UK. [Click here for more information about our research].

Staff and Trustees