The RAF Waddington Integrated Welfare Facility or IWF for short, is a relatively recent addition to Welfare & Community Support facilities here at Waddington.

The aim of the project when first proposed was to provide enhanced welfare facilities for personnel and their families at RAF Waddington by providing a centrally located building, suitable for a wide variety of community activities.

Existing welfare and community facilities in 2002 were spread over a wide area, with many situated in unsuitable accommodation or accommodation that would require substantial investment to secure its long term use. Originally in June 2002, a presentation was given to RAF Central funds at PTC, Innsworth that highlighted the need for a consolidated approach to Welfare and Community Support. A large building offering the possibility of holding large welfare information briefings to families and civilians, necessary during Operational periods as well as offering the opportunities to draw together significant numbers of welfare and community activities was seen as a positive way forward.

It was anticipated that existing facilities such as HIVE, SSAFA Forces Help, Coffee Shop, Mums and Toddlers, Youth Club and other groups such as Brownies, Guides etc. would be able to operate from one location and thereby offer a 'one-stop shop' for most welfare and community activities.

Work started in Feb 03 and the building was handed over in August 03. After opening in September 03, the building has developed in popularity and is now regularly meeting the needs of Service Personnel, their families and other members of the community.

The building is currently home to no less than 17 groups and activities that operate on a regular basis including 11 other regular user groups or individuals to those already mentioned in addition to those already mentioned. These groups include the Stations Community Development Worker, Kick Boxing, NHS Parent & Baby groups, Craft and Book clubs and the RAF Regimental Association who meet on a fortnightly basis.

Full details of all the groups operating from the building, including contact information of organisers can be found by accessing the link opposite.

It is possible to book the hall for private groups and functions, mainly at weekends, full details are available on request.  For more information, please contact the HIVE Information Officer or the Station Community Development Worker.