Representatives from local groups gathered at Sporting Club Thamesmead for the Thamesmead Community Group Forum, organised by Peabody. The event gave attendees a chance to speak with funding experts, including METRO GAVS, Bexley Voluntary Service Council, the Royal Borough of Greenwich fundraising team and the National Lottery.
After one-to-one conversations with key organisations, the community groups listened to a presentation from the National Lottery. They learned more about two National Lottery funding programmes, Awards for All and Reaching Communities, and how to apply for them.
The talk also included details of successful applications by local organisations Divine Buzz and Seniors in Touch.
“The work of Thamesmead’s community groups is incredibly valuable for hundreds of local people,” said Dan Wells, Peabody’s Community Investment Lead in Thamesmead.
“Those who attended the forum told us it was a really helpful event. It was so useful to have the National Lottery in Thamesmead, sharing insights with local groups and guiding them towards the available funding opportunities.
“There was a great atmosphere in the room as all the community groups came together. We hope hearing the local success stories inspires more groups to secure the funding to play an even greater role in the community.”
Supporting community groups carrying out work that benefits local people is a key part of Peabody’s long-term regeneration plans for Thamesmead.
The event was planned in response to research recently carried out for Peabody. Improving Outcomes, a report on the town’s voluntary and community sector by Connecting Thamesmead, found that securing funding is one of the key challenges facing local community groups.
The Community Group Forum will meet regularly throughout the year. Their next event is planned for May. To get involved, email thamesmeadcommunityteam@peabody.org.uk.