Originally established in 1905 ‘The Welcome Club’ provided food, shelter and basic education to improve the lives of the many single women, forced by poverty or abuse, to flee their homes and families in search of work and a new life in the thriving London docks only to discover that the streets of London, and particularly those of the east end, were not ‘paved with gold’.

By 1923 the Dockland Settlements, as it had then become known, had expanded its social services and developed a range of facilities and activities designed to improve and enhance the health, education and life skills of the whole family.  Sport was encouraged and a gymnasium nurtured competition winning teams of boxers and athletes, cup-winning football teams and even pigeon racing!  A variety of classes and pastimes catered for old and young and the buildings provided a focus and a venue for community entertainment including performances by the amateur dramatics group and grand fundraising balls.

Throughout the war years the work of Dockland Settlements played an important role in maintaining a community spirit and, amazingly, the buildings, though shaken, even survived the devastation of east London during the ‘Blitz’.  The success of these ‘Community Centres’ continued throughout the 50’s and 60’s, but however, as local authorities progressively developed their own facilities and reduced or withdrew essential funding, a number of settlements were forced into closure.  Those that remained were old and in need of significant investment.  However, thanks to the dedicated work of the trustees and volunteers, generously supported by corporate neighbours, regeneration agencies and charitable trusts, three of the centres survive.

Download: "A Stake in the Future" - a Dockland Settlements pamphlet from the '60's. PDF (2mb)

Today, as work to raise funds and improve buildings and facilities continues, Dockland Settlements remain at the heart of their local communities and host an ever increasing range of social activities including Parent & Toddler Groups, Parenting Courses, Scout & Cub Packs, Tae Kwondo, Aerobics, Ballroom & Rock ‘n’ Roll Dancing, Singing & Music Classes and a Pensioners Club.  Church Groups and a Computer Fair also operate in two of our buildings each weekend.

Download: "1905-2005 Dockland Settlement No 2, Isle of Dogs" - Island History leaflet, May/June 2005. PDF (3mb)

In keeping with the recent regeneration of London’s Dockland future redevelopment of our centres will further sustain and improve the facilities and enable us to add value to the lives of local people.  Please bookmark this site and visit regularly to see how we develop or, if you wish to learn more about Dockland Settlements, visit a centre near you, participate in our many activities or help us achieve our fundraising goals then please contact us

Patron:  Her Majesty the Queen
President:   The Earl Cadogan DL

Dockland Settlements is a Registered Charity No 306025
Company Limited By Guarantee Ref:  CRN202349