The Presbyterian Church has had a presence on the Isle of Dogs since the growth of the docklands in 1800’s. St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church was founded in 1856 to serve the needs of Scottish shipwrights working on Brunel’s ship The Great Eastern. In 1971 the Presbyterian Settlement in nearby Poplar and St. Paul’s  Church  came together to found Island House as a purpose-built Community Centre to replace the old settlement in Poplar. St. Paul’s Church (now a part of the United Reformed denomination)has worshipped here since it opened. A chapel offers dedicated space for quiet reflection and prayer, alongside an active programme of social action and social welfare.  

During its 33-year history, Island House staff and volunteers have continuously worked in partnership with other local community groups and churches, offering spaces for organizations to become established. We have a strong track record for capacity building, with many local community organizations starting their life as Island House projects. For example:

• Space (a community arts project)

• Docklands Outreach (a detached youth project)

• Island History Trust (a local history society)

• Island Advice Centre

• Island House Pre-school Playgroup