Community and
Belonging Forum

WHO WE ARE

We are a community forum run by Big Local SW11 and match-funded by the Battersea Alliance to support local people, groups and organisations to bring their new ideas and projects of creating a happier, healthier community to life.

WHAT WE ARE SET UP TO DO

Loneliness can have a harmful effect on people’s physical and mental health, especially if it goes on for long periods of time.

We use our knowledge of the local community to bring together partners and projects and funding, so we can support the projects that will make the biggest difference to local people.

How do we make a difference?

We can support you with:

1 / PEOPLE

Building a team & access volunteers and build a network who can support you to realise your ideas and projects

2 / MONEY

Determining a budget for your project and source funds and access fundraising

3 / PLAN

Creating an action plan of how your project can work

4 / PROGRESS

Understanding what elements of your project have worked well and what to develop for next time

5 / NEXT STEPS

Knowing how to build on this idea or project and move it forward

who we’ve helped so far

We’ve supported more than 22 community groups so far and here's a snapshot of the types of projects that have been delivered.

The Falcon Estate Residents Association

This community engagement programme was delivered by 8 volunteers who connected local residents with their wider community. This helped more than 40 people to reduce their anxiety and keep them better informed of how to connect with others.

The Guy’s Room

This men’s support group provides a safe environment for men to discuss issues around their physical health, mental health and wellbeing. It’s a great opportunity for men to discuss issues they may usually feel uncomfortable sharing by providing a safe space for them to build their confidence and highlights that they are not alone.

I Sensory

This group provides support for SEN children and their families through a range of activities and events, increasing self-confidence in the children and providing parents with enhanced awareness of options and opportunities. The support the community and belonging forum gave them has enabled them to gain the relevant assurances/qualification in safeguarding, liabilities, first aid, and has set them on the path to becoming a Community Interest Company or getting Charity status.

AGOE Empowerment Network

Supports people with English as a second or third language to access services, and opportunities through helping them with all types of applications and forms. The network works to motivate, educate, inspire, and support the community.

Fitwell

A fitness and mental health programme for women from the Battersea area. It provides a safe space for women and brings together different communities to create a sense of belonging.

OTHER WORK

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

There’s always something going on that residents of SW11 and the Battersea area can get involved with. Have a look at the events calendar to see what’s going on in your local area. Or feel free to come along to our community and belonging forum to see what great new projects your neighbours are creating. Can’t find what you are looking for on the website - then contact us to find out more.