Blog

Nicky Gavron was the driving force and inspiration behind Jacksons Lane. She was always an advocate for children’s play. In 1972, she started a summer holiday playscheme at Highgate Primary for 5-11 year olds, involving parents and many local people. Over 100 children attended every day for many years. Eventually, through the Haringey Play Association, which Nicky and a few parents set up, 19 such playschemes were run in Haringey, all free of charge to families.

Locally, there was a need for a place for other young people. Nicky suggested the Church on the corner of Jacksons Lane, which had been bought by Haringey but was not being used. She brought together a group of us to plan how we could use the building and draw up a proposal. It took three years to persuade Haringey to let us use the building for a peppercorn rent and provide a small amount of funding for necessary repairs.

It was Nicky’s enthusiasm, determination, and powers of persuasion that enabled us, finally, in 1975, to open the building. Her vision and her networks brought many local people together, and Jacksons Lane was born as a place for the whole community. Haringey provided a youth worker, and from there many other activities developed, run by local volunteers — a playgroup, a café, lunches for older people, and classes and courses for all ages. The hall next to the church became the theatre, and Nicky ensured that many innovative groups came to perform.

The church itself was still an empty space with just one kitchen shared by everyone, but it worked remarkably well. Over many meetings at Nicky’s house, further plans were discussed and, in due course, brought to fruition. Fundraising became essential as we needed to divide the space and appoint staff. Nicky was instrumental in persuading Haringey to give us an annual grant. She also helped secure funding from the Arts Council. Later, she raised money to refurbish the theatre, which has since become such an important part of Jacksons Lane — and even more to build the second floor.

When Nicky became a local councillor for Haringey and then Deputy Mayor of London, her time and energy were redirected, but Jacksons Lane remained central and important to her. Her support was ongoing. She asked me and others to ensure it continued to grow and develop. Over the fifty years, thousands of supporters and people have been involved with Jacksons Lane. It is thriving and well-known, not only in London, but nationally and internationally. Everyone has benefited in so many ways.

Recently, Nicky was involved in planning for the 50th anniversary. Her knowledge — and archives — have been crucial in tracing the history of Jacksons Lane. It is unbelievably sad that she will not be with us to celebrate. Without Nicky — her passion, commitment, and brilliant way of engaging with people — Jacksons Lane would not be here.

Written by Melian Mansfield, close friend and fellow founder of Jacksons Lane.