Bradford Trident

Bradford District is ranked as the 13th most deprived local authority in England, with a 7.1% unemployment rate, compared to the national average of 3.8% [1].

Some of the indicators of deprivation in Bradford include low income, poor-quality housing, high unemployment, low educational attainment and poor health outcomes. More than 16 schools in Bradford were rated as ‘requires improvement’ by Ofsted, and educators have repeatedly raised concerns about the lack of funding, explaining they do not have staff with the time or opportunity to deal with arising issues [2].

Data from the 2021 Census reveals that 17% of households in Bradford experience multiple forms of deprivation. These factors often intersect and reinforce each other, creating a cycle of poverty and disadvantage that is difficult to break.

Bradford Trident owns and manages a diverse portfolio of community assets, including three community centres, a sports centre, two medical care centres, an enterprise centre and an industrial unit. Through dialogue with the local network, it aims to bring the community together in Bradford, celebrating its spirit by fostering skill development, supporting enterprise and improving the environment.

The organisation delivers over ten different community services ranging from a preschool nursery and children’s play area to trauma-informed workforce development, an active travel hub and sports development initiatives. They also offer professional services and managed business spaces, providing a platform for local businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive.

Bradford Trident generates income through its portfolio of community buildings, which generates unrestricted income for community services and acts as hubs for local action and activities.

We are invested in the organisation through the Resilience and Recovery Loan Fund (RRLF), issued through Social Investment Business (SIB). Bradford Trident sought this investment to restore Parkside Sports Centre, a well-loved local sports centre that was marked for closure by the council. It received £500,000 in the form of a £400,000 loan and a £100,000 grant which helped pay for the architectural plans, planning permissions and other expenses for the project.

During 2022-23, Bradford Trident reached 29,593 service users [3]. Park Lane Pre-School received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted, excelling across all inspection areas and highlighting its dedication to providing quality early childhood education [4].

The sports centre has grown in participation with more women's teams taking part. It also has helped to host sessions for children and the wider community, with initiatives to promote reading, fitness, female health sessions and higher education support for school leavers. Bradford Trident is now planning an extension to the sport center's main hall alongside introducing energy efficiency measures, having secured finances and support from longstanding investors for this project.