Whitwell Hall Country Centre has recently fallen on hard financial times. Since then, it has unfortunately slipped into administration. Founded in 1938, the non-profit organization has offered once-in-a-lifetime experiences to school children for decades on its stunning campus. With a debt of £40,000 and continued cash-flow insolvency, the centre was forced to close down overnight.
Even today, John McKean—who’s worked as the centre’s manager for the past 29 years—lives on the premises to care for the unique building. He opened his heart, sharing how he came to have such a powerful bond with Whitwell Hall. “It’s been my life, my workplace, and my home for 29 years,” he said. His personal connections stretch back—in addition to being married at the hall, McKean raised his two children there. He called the facility more than just a place to work but a place you live, personally stating that, “Norfolk’s become my home.”
These ongoing financial woes led the charity to cut 56% of its employees. Three of the four professional staff members have recently been laid off, and salary has not been paid since August. McKean attacked the former trustees of the charity, saying that staff had been “horribly failed.”
The hall and its associated grounds are worth around £2m. If sold, the proceeds will be allocated to charities that share a similar ethos to that of Whitwell Hall Country Centre. The charity has made a remarkable difference to the local community. It finds transportation for Reepham residents and facilitates social engagements for Reepham’s older inhabitants.
Trustees of Whitwell Hall were all too aware of the forces behind our financial collapse. They feel that the Covid lockdowns had an outsized effect on those bookings. These forces, combined with the recent economic climate and increasing pressures on school staff and the curriculum, have been key drivers. As for the complaints, they stressed that should never be a negative indication of the commitment and effort of the people who work on Park staff.
As Whitwell Hall continues to make this difficult transition under the interim administration of Parker Andrews, the future is anyone’s guess. The organization has long been known for its strong legacy in outdoor education. Now, economic pressures endanger its future and the highly regarded community development programs it offers.
