Celebrating Elizabeth Braundt: A Legacy Cemented at Providence House

In the heart of Battersea, a new blue plaque gleams in the sunlight, a testament to the enduring legacy of Elizabeth Braundt, the visionary founder of Providence House. This emblem of recognition, unveiled in a touching ceremony, marks more than just the physical space where Braundt’s transformative work began. It symbolizes the countless lives she touched and the community she uplifted through her unwavering dedication to service.

A Vision Born in Battersea

It was in the bustling streets of Battersea that Elizabeth Braundt saw the potential for change. Amidst the post-war reconstruction, she envisioned a place of refuge and growth for the youth—a sanctuary that would come to be known as Providence House. Her mission was clear: to create a haven where children and families could find support, education, and a sense of belonging.

The Unveiling Ceremony

The unveiling of the blue plaque was a momentous occasion, bringing together members of the community, local dignitaries, and those who had been directly impacted by Braundt’s work. As the cloth was drawn back to reveal the plaque, there was a collective intake of breath—a moment of shared pride and reflection on the profound influence of Providence House.

A Legacy That Lives On

Elizabeth Braundt may no longer be with us, but her spirit endures in the walls of Providence House and in the hearts of those it serves. The blue plaque is a beacon of hope, a reminder that one person’s compassion can ignite a flame that burns brightly for generations.

As we celebrate this well-deserved recognition, we are reminded of the power of community and the indelible mark one individual can leave on the world. Elizabeth Braundt’s legacy is not just etched in stone; it is woven into the fabric of Battersea and beyond.


Providence House continues to be a pillar of the Battersea community, embodying the values and vision of its founder. The blue plaque is not only an honour for Elizabeth Braundt but also an inspiration for all who believe in the power of giving back

Sponsorship to Support Providence House and Shallowford

It’s a long way to Widecombe!
9 cyclists, 2 women, 5 men, 2 young people.
250 miles from Providence House, Battersea to East Shallowford, Widecombe, Devon.
5 days travelling the back roads of southern England, staying overnight in church halls, from Battersea to Odiham, to Salisbury, to Somerset, to Devon, and then the big climb up to Dartmoor.
£20,000 target for sponsorship to support 100 young people and children from the inner city to benefit from a unique residential farm experience on Dartmoor.
£3,500 in so far. Keep it rolling in.
Please sponsor us Donate Here

 

City to Farm Cycle Ride Fundraiser 2019

City to Farm Cycle Ride Fundraiser 2019

The riders from Providence: Phil is a carpenter, Gavin a builder, Christian a music studio technician, and Ashur and Imaan are students in local Battersea Schools.
The riders from Shallowford: Johnny works at Exeter Crown Court, Serena at East  Shallowford, Brenda is a nurse and Roger a Bereavement Counselor
If you’ve sponsored us already, thank you so much!
For more information about us visit Shallowford Farm or  Providence House

Quote for the ride:
“Shallowford is the home that I did not have growing up. It’s the solid foundation that I believe we all need. The simplicity of life and ways of the farm are very important for the development of the man I am today. The farm gives a very important respite from the city life.
My children have all been brought going to the farm over the years. I believe it has had a big impact on them. They will all hold the memories for years to come, long after the visits have been and gone.
The farm is a unique educational place – food, environment, lifestyle, communication, family, relationships.
I am cycling to keep the experience going.” Phil Dorman

Founder of Providence House dies aged 91

It is the end of an era for Providence House.

Around 1960, Elizabeth Braund first started the youth work in the old Providence Chapel before today’s housing estates were built.

Elizabeth Braund

Elizabeth Braund

In 1970 she opened the present building on Falcon Road to consolidate the work with young people and families. Providence House still functions today on the Falcon Road as a flourishing centre for community activities and responding to changing social needs.

In 1975 the new adventure to Dartmoor began, with the opening of East Shallowford Farm in 1976.

On Monday 20th May 2013, Elizabeth passed away at her home, East Shallowford, just 3 weeks short of 92 years.

Her legacy is in the lives of countless Battersea and Wandsworth families.

Elizabeth wrote many books, one of which Young Woman Who Lived in a Shoe (Prisca) tells the story of Providence House, “Ethelberta” a children’s story written for the BBC Children’s Hour and numerous articles for The Evangelical Magazine and other Christian periodicals.

Read obituary here: http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/Editor-helped-inner-city-children-experience-farm/story-19121138-detail/story.html#axzz2Un4ZsidJ