Kendal's one-stop-shop for voluntary and charitable organisations opened its doors to the public this week to give people an insight into the work of charities in South Lakeland.

Stricklandgate House has been home to a variety of local charitable organisations since 1993 when South Lakeland District Council agreed to let the building to various groups under the umbrella of the Stricklandgate House Trust.

The prospect of a central location with well-managed accommodation alongside other charities at an affordable rent was understandably appealing and from day one Stricklandgate House has been fully occupied with a waiting list for vacancies.

The house receives an average of 12,000 visitors each year who visit one or more of the 21 tenant organisations in the property.

Colin Reynolds, chairman of Stricklandgate Trust, says that one of the advantages of the house is the anonymity it affords the people who visit the groups within the building.

"The location is convenient for clients who appreciate the anonymity of visiting the house as opposed to being seen to be seeking support from a particular organisation."

In addition, the house also boasts an impressive range of facilities including a brand new computer suite and a state-of-the-art conference centre, which it lets out to local companies and organisations.

Reporter Paul Duncan spoke to representatives of some of the charities resident at Stricklandgate House to find out what it means to be part of such a vibrant community of voluntary organisations.