Barbados Overseas Community Friends Association (BOCFA) was founded in November 1966 and is the first Barbadian association established in the United Kingdom. For over 60 years, BOCFA has played a pioneering role in supporting the Barbadian diaspora and inspiring the growth of Caribbean organisations across the UK.
From its inception, BOCFA created a vital social and support network bringing Barbadians together to connect, share experiences, and build community. Through branches in major towns, the organisation provided essential welfare services to vulnerable members of the community.
Social events, particularly the iconic dances of the 1960s, became the heartbeat of BOCFA. The Lyceum, in particular, became renowned for hosting vibrant gatherings that strengthened cultural identity and community bonds.
A Legacy of Impact
BOCFA’s history is marked by bold initiatives that delivered real impact.
One of its most remarkable achievements was chartering a plane to Barbados, giving many individuals the opportunity to return home for the first time since their arrival in the UK. By offering affordable fares, BOCFA made travel accessible to those who could not afford the high prices charged by BOAC (British Overseas Airways Corporation). This initiative reconnected families and strengthened ties to homeland and heritage.
BOCFA has also nurtured influential leadership. One of its founding members, Owen Eversley MBE, served as president before becoming the UK’s Deputy High Commissioner to Barbados, an enduring testament to the organisation’s impact and credibility.
Supporting Our Community
BOCFA has always been driven by a commitment to practical support and community care.
Historically, the organisation:
Assisted individuals with completing application forms
Provided guidance on immigration, pensions, and social benefits.
Supported those planning relocation to Barbados.
Served as trusted representatives within the community.
Executive members were even authorised to sign passport forms as ambassadors for the Barbados Government—demonstrating the level of trust placed in the organisation. Although this responsibility was later transferred and eventually discontinued by the present administration, it reflects BOCFA’s longstanding role as a community anchor.
Today, BOCFA continues to respond to evolving needs, particularly supporting older and vulnerable individuals, while recognising the changing social landscape and the importance of preserving community values.
Giving Back
Giving back remains at the heart of BOCFA’s mission.
We continue to support communities in both the UK and Barbados through donations and outreach initiatives. Recent beneficiaries include:
Drax Hall Community Group (Barbados) and
St Philip’s community, through Christmas hamper distributions
St Patrick Primary School
Hope Foundation
Challenor School of Creative Arts
Through these efforts, BOCFA continues to make a meaningful difference where it is needed most.
Culture, Events & Community Engagement
BOCFA has long been a driving force in cultural celebration and engagement.
Celebrating Tradition
The Barbados Independence Dance remains one of our most important and unifying events. Traditionally held on the Saturday closest to Independence, it continues to bring the community together in celebration of Barbadian heritage.
Embracing Modern Voices
While honouring tradition, BOCFA has evolved to deliver a diverse programme of contemporary events that inform, inspire, and engage:
Sexexplained for mature people by Helen Knox
BARBADOS TO England – A panel discussion with Dr. Nola Ishmael, OBE, May Tanner, John Denny. OBE and Tony Sandiford
-Book launches featuring figures such as Sir Wes Hall and author Kandace Chimbiri
The Errol Barrow Memorial Lecture, with speakers including Professor Richard Drayton, Collin Carter, NHS Consultant Dr Don Belfield Burgess and Esther Oxei
Talks and discussions hosted at venues such as All Saints Church (Ladbroke Grove) and Kensal Green
The Emancipation Commemorative Service at St John Divine Church in Brixton
Routes to Bim, a groundbreaking panel exploring Barbadian identity.
Autism and Black Folk (2025) by Dr Donna-Marie Holder raises awareness on important community issues.
Informative sessions, such as the Sexplained talk for mature audiences, demonstrate BOCFA’s commitment to education and open dialogue.
These events reflect our dedication to addressing real issues while celebrating culture and identity. In recent years, many of these initiatives have been delivered in collaboration with the social enterprise Books n Tingsz, strengthening our reach and impact.
Looking to the Future
As many founding members have retired and returned to Barbados, a new generation is stepping forward to continue the work they began.
BOCFA remains committed to:
Supporting vulnerable members of the community
Preserving Barbadian culture and heritage
Creating opportunities for connection, learning, and growth
Building a stronger, more inclusive future
The story continues, and we invite you to be part of it.
