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B e t t e r o u t c o m e s f o r l o c a l p e o p l e

C O M M U N I T Y F U N DP r o g r e s s R e p o r t 2 0 1 7 / 1 8

FOREWORD Councillor Hamida Ali: Cabinet Member for Communities, Safety and Justice ...........................................................................................3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Introduction to the Community Fund Programme ..........................................................................................................................................4

THEME 1 Vibrant, responsible and connected communities...........................................................................................................................................9

THEME 2 A connected borough where no one is isolated ........................................................................................................................................... 13

THEME 3 Supporting residents towards better times ................................................................................................................................................... 16

THEME 4 Leaving no child behind ................................................................................................................................................................................... 25

THEME 5 Finding homes for all ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 30

APPENDIX 1 Additional sources for information on the Community Fund Programme ................................................................................................. 33

C O N T E N T S

COMMUNITY FUND PROGRESS REPORT 2017/2018

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Croydon is one of London’s most wonderfully diverse boroughs and a place where inspirational residents and communities live and work. In 2015, the Opportunity and Fairness Commission (OFC) gathered views from across the borough to understand the issues and challenges faced by the people of Croydon in order to build and create a fairer and better place to live for all. In meeting the key inequality and poverty challenges residents face, the OFC advocated for strong neighbourhoods where citizen activism and participation in the local community, faith and sports groups are well embedded and healthier vibrant communities are reinforced. The Council were asked to show leadership in this area by promoting community involvement, supporting asset based development approaches and devolving power to local communities.

This is why, we created the Community Fund. By reshaping the grant support to the Voluntary Sector around OFC themes and including support for asset based community development, we were able to secure circa £6m of funding for 3 years. This report takes you through the progress that has been made and the outcomes that have been delivered through the Community Fund in year one.

In providing this update, on behalf of the Administration, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude towards the Voluntary and Community Sector.

The Council would not be able to achieve its objective of a fairer and better place to live for all without the contribution that the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector makes. They play a key role in delivering services that rebalance and address inequality, improve cohesion and increase community leadership. The Community Fund Programme is one of the ways we are supporting local action and initiatives. We are working with communities to develop their potential and to support them to deliver services that we may not be at the best position to provide. We seek better ways of delivering the earliest help, prevention and intervention through community partnerships.

I know through my experience of working with the sector and visits to the partner organisations, that the Community Fund programme harnesses a culture of putting people at the heart of the solution to these challenges, as we all move from dependence on traditional services towards enabling greater independence, self-reliance and resilience and putting in place preventative measures.

There are several case study examples in this brochure which demonstrate the power of community solutions in helping to prevent social isolation and the associated health risks and care needs of people.

Furthermore, these services are real examples of vibrant and responsible communities, and it gives me confidence to see how well the sector is demonstrating the real difference that is being made for our residents

and communities. The year ahead looks positive, with structures and improvements in place, or those that are being developed, to allow us to continue enhancing and securing the outcomes. Of course, we could not continue to make the difference that we do without our committed staff, volunteers, hardworking partners and our gratitude goes out to you all.

FOREWORDCouncillor Hamida Ali, Cabinet Member Communities, Safety and Justice

Councillor Hamida AliCabinet Member for Communities, Safety and Justice


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The VCSE sector makes a significant and essential contribution to the social, economics, health and wellbeing of communities. The VCSE sector has a strong history of innovation and has continued to strive and play a crucial role in providing a wide range of services. They are the gateway to our diverse communities, widening the reach of residents who sometimes feel excluded from mainstream services.

Public services are under increasing pressure as a result of rising demand and reducing resources. The VCSE Sector remains key to helping the Council and its partners to respond to this challenge. To support the required changes the Council has reviewed its VCSE Sector investment and commissioning arrangements to ensure they are delivering the desired outcomes, driving maximum value for money, meeting community need and effectively supporting the Sector to improve and thrive.

In October 2016, the Council adopted a new approach to supporting and investing in the VCSE sector. Its focus was on unlocking and recognising the need to focus on outcomes for our residents and to harness the social value of the voluntary sector as equal partners. It is well understood the purpose of funding is to deliver outcomes to local residents and communities. The Programme also provides transparency and clarity in the delivery of desired outcomes along with cost of providing those outcomes, to facilitate more of a

better understanding of the community. Moreover, the relationship is nurtured so that organisations are more accountable for funding and diversifying their income, which all supports a commercial and entrepreneurial approach and transforms our relationships with our communities.

In November 2016, the Council led the way by becoming a Living Wage Friendly Funder.

The London Living Wage Friendly Funders support charities to pay the real living wage through their grant-making. We are working to end low pay in the VCSE sector as well as the wider community. This action continues to show our commitment and leadership to increase income of residents and community sector.

The real living wage is key to the sector’s pursuit for social justice. By ensuring that all posts are paid the real living wage, we are supporting a higher standard of living for individuals employed within the VCSE sector and their families. By supporting those out of in-work poverty this commitment helps address the wage inequalities in the borough.

This report sets out the current funding arrangements and themes and outcomes delivered so far. It presents the emerging findings, key achievements and a selection of case studies to illustrate the difference the Community Fund is making to people’s lives.

These include enabling communities to look after themselves to a greater degree, reducing demand on statutory services and providing mitigations against some of the cuts in public services. It is also proving to be an effective way of improving our relationships and our understanding of communities.

There is a recognised need for the right type of capacity building support to the VCSE, including:

• “Skilling up” VCSE organisations in bidding for and taking on commissioned services.

• Embedding business planning to ensure that VCSE services are resilient and less reliant on funding from the Council.

• Encouraging VCSE organisations to innovate on how they generate income and supporting the sector to retain premises and resources in a difficult financial climate.

The Council will be seeking to review the Community Fund programme and ensure that the sector is appropriately supported to build greater financial resilience and is self-sustaining.

EXECUT IVE SUMMARY


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BACKGROUND

During 2015, the Council commissioned the OFC to recommend ways to reduce inequity and advance equality and diversity. The work of the Commission was one of the widest conversations with the community of any London Borough. The findings from the Commission, reported to Cabinet in January 2016, have influenced the outcomes the Council is seeking to achieve through the new Community Fund programme 2016-19.

Croydon OFC published its final report on 28th January 2016. The report highlighted the key inequality and fairness challenges for the borough and presented recommendations on how these could be addressed by the Council in partnership with the VCSE sector.

Croydon’s VCSE sector has a strong history of providing imaginative and community based solutions. The Council, like other public sector organisations, are keen to work in partnership with our local VCSE to ensure that we collectively deliver better outcomes for the residents of Croydon.

The Community Fund programme adopted the OFC key themes and built a dynamic approach to supporting and investing in the VCSE sector to deliver improved outcomes. The proposal was developed in collaboration with the sector through a range of meetings and discussions.

The programme was established on a number of important principles:

• A focus on key outcomes that needed to be influenced and changed across the borough. This meant that we moved away from funding organisations and instead funded programmes and activities which would achieve the intended outcomes.

• Alignment to the Council’s Corporate Plan, “Ambitious for Croydon”, and the borough’s Community Strategy.

• Shaped and influenced by the recommendations of the Opportunities and Fairness Commission.

• Support community empowerment by helping residents to live independent lives.

• Support VCSE strengths in developing community responses to the identified key outcomes, while building the capabilities of the sector to adapt to the difficult financial climate and become more sustainable.

• The programme design principles are about nurturing a stronger business relationship, building an enterprising economy that continues to play a crucial role in delivering public services and demonstrating value for money.

• The Community Fund supports a vibrant and creative place where local people have a better quality of life and flourish.

In doing this, it was vital that the Community Fund prospectus policy and approach were aligned to the Opportunities and Fairness Commission’s recommendations.

In October 2016, the three year funding arrangements for the Council’s new programme were implemented. Overall, nearly £6M has been invested in the programme delivery over three years. A detailed breakdown has been provided in appendix 1.

The programme has 35 delivery partners, see appendix 1. The partners have been commissioned to deliver outcomes that focus on early prevention and intervention.

The following sections of the report aim to provide an overview of the programme’s scope as well as examples of the emerging outcomes and achievements.


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VIBRANT, RESPONSIBLE AND CONNECTED COMMUNITIES

A CONNECTED BOROUGH WHERE NO ONE IS ISOLATED

• A place that communities are proud of and want to look after as their neighbourhood.

• A place where people feel safe and are safe.

• Wellbeing improved across all communities through sport and physical activity.

• Parks and open spaces are a cultural resource.

• A thriving and lively cultural offer which engages communities and supports regeneration.

• A place that is easy and safe for all to get to and move around in.

• Enabling digital services that meet the needs of local people.


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SUPPORTING RESIDENTS TOWARDS BETTER TIMES

LEAVING NO CHILD BEHIND

FINDING HOMES FOR ALL

• Supporting people to be resilient, self-reliant, and helping them move towards/into employment, and financial and digital inclusion.

• Families and individuals are more financially resilient and live affordable lives.

• People from all communities live longer, healthier lives through positive lifestyle choices.

• Families are healthy and resilient and able to maximise their life chances and independence.

• Children and vulnerable adults are protected from harm and exploitation.

• Domestic abuse and sexual violence is prevented where possible, victims are supported, and perpetrators held to account.

• People of all ages are able to reach their potential through access to quality schools and learning.

• Children, young people and their parents/carers enjoy emotional wellbeing.

• Children, young people and parents are healthy and physically well.

• Services for children, young people and their parents are more responsive and consistent.

• Tackling street homelessness and destitution.

• Preventing homelessness whenever possible.

• Efficient and effective statutory homelessness service.

• A minimum possible use of emergency temporary accommodation, and increasing supply of private rented accommodation for homeless households.

• Improving health outcomes for homeless households.


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OUTCOMES

KEY LINKSBuilding on VCS Strengths

FOUNDATIONSEnvironment for a thriving VCS

KEY BUILDING BLOCKS FOR THE NEW DEAL WITH THE COMMUNITY


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£2.2 million was committed to the Vibrant, Responsible and Connected Communities theme over 3 years. With this funding we wanted the VCSE sector to work with us to create an environment which engenders responsibility and nurtures the positive things which people are willing to do to make their locality a better place to live.

The Ambitious for Croydon outcomes for this theme are:

1. To drive fairness for all communities, people and places.

2. To improve wellbeing across all communities through sport and physical activity.

3. To create a place that communities are proud of and want to look after as their neighbourhood.

The key outcomes to date include:

• More than 200 instances of peer to peer capacity building support provided to the VCSE sector.

• 90% of faith VCSEs feeling that they are enabling greater community cohesion by working collaboratively through interfaith activities.

• Greater partnerships within the VCSE sector resulting in sharing best practice, resources and joint bids for funding.

• Nearly 1,000 people encouraged and supported to volunteer in their community.

The case studies on the following pages demonstrate the difference that this funding is making.

THEME 1Vibrant, responsible and connected communities


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Eunice’s Story in her own words.

“I was determined to get back into the office, but because of the job I was already doing, getting back into the office was a No No as I didn’t have the experience organisations required of you to work on Reception or in Admin, so I decided to sign myself up for Voluntary work at the volunteer centre in Centrale and take it from there.

I was still applying for Admin/Reception vacancies, (although a lot of them you needed 1yr experience) I never gave up. I got signed up to work at the Resource Centre on reception with some administration, where I have been for 14 months.

As a Volunteer at the Resource Centre my weekly tasks were:

• Distribution of the mail.

• Topping up tea, coffee and sugar jars.

• Filling the printer with paper.

• Keeping the reception area tidy and sorting the leaflets and posters.

• Answering the phone and dealing with any queries.

• Face-to-face queries.

• Any other additional work or tasks, were entirely down to me.

After months of persevering, I have landed myself a full-time job working in admin for a courtesy car company.

I am so pleased that I chose volunteering as this has helped me with my chosen route of career, helped me gain the experience I needed to for the career I so wanted to get back into. It may not be paid work but the outcome is much better and rewarding.”

EUN ICE ’S S TORY

Eunice came to the Volunteer Centre a little over 18 months ago, although working she was unhappy in her job and wanted to change her career path. After spending time with our volunteer advisors she was given a choice of three organisations she could apply to volunteer at.

I am so p l e a sed t ha t I c hose v o l un t ee r i n g

Case study 1

Team Croydon Volunteering


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The The Asian Resource Centre Croydon (ARCC) deliver a dynamic partnership with 15 community grass roots organisations.

Three years ago, Sonia’s husband passed away and shortly after that her son had to undergo a triple bypass. The great bunch of people that she met at the ARCC were instrumental in getting her through a very difficult time. Through dance and yoga, she and others are able to develop a positive mental attitude which helps them to help each other through everyday ups and downs.

Without the intervention of ARCC, Sonia may have descended into ill health but instead she has thrived and is well and has a strong support structure around her to face future life difficulties if they arise. Photo shows Sonia performing at the Community Fund Showcase Event at Croydon Park Hotel in February 2018.

Case study 2

SON IA’S S TORY

Sonia’s story is a living example of the impact Health and Wellbeing services can have on preventing ill health, isolation and depression. Sonia lives in Thornton Heath and at 61 years old, she is one of the youngest in the group of people that attend the ARCC Dance Movement classes.

These a r e t he bes t r e su l t s y ou ha ve had i n 1 0 y ea r s s o wha te ve r y ou a r e do i n g – keep do i n g i t .Sonia’s GP at her quarterly check-up for diabetes, high blood pressure and asthma.


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SUPPORT ING A RES IDENT IN F INANC IAL HARDSH IP (C I T I ZENS ADV ICE CROYDON)

Case study 3

A 55 year old resident, separated from his partner, with 2 dependent children and a mortgaged house fell on hard times. He had been on sick leave from his job for nine months and was awaiting the date of an operation on his left foot. His sick pay had finished and he was just receiving the basic amount of Universal Credit. He also received Personal Independent Payment for daily living and mobility issues.

He had accrued Council Tax arrears of £1,400 and mortgage arrears of £1,800. He had an agreement with the mortgage company that it would be put on hold until he started work again. The Council was taking court action in respect of the Council Tax arrears. He sought help from the Croydon Advice Service and was advised to claim the ‘New Style’ Employment and Support Allowance contribution based as it was outside of Universal Credit. This was because he was unable to work due his disability.

He was also not receiving any Council Tax support or claiming the single adult discount as he was the only adult living in the property. He would receive help with his mortgage interest after he had been on Universal Credit for nine assessment periods which based on current government assistance rates would be £174 per month.

After checking his Universal Credit award it was found that he was not receiving the child responsibility payment and he should apply for this. As a result of this advice and support, he received the single adult discount for his council tax of £476.34 and Council Tax Support of £27.48 per week. This resulted in having a credit in his council tax account. He also received the Child Responsibility payment of £508.75 in his Universal Credit.


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£1.8 million was committed to the Connected Borough Where No One Is Isolated theme over 3 years.

Carers across Croydon provide significant support to our health and social care system. A range of factors have contributed to an increase in the incidence of social isolation and loneliness and being a carer significantly increases the risk of social isolation. In this theme there is a strong provision of carers support. Supporting carers can reduce their stress and anxiety, and can enable them to increase their social networks, as caring can sometimes feel quite isolating. Initiatives such as peer support groups, activity groups, exercise groups, one-to-one support, and information, advice and guidance can be hugely supportive to carers, which is why in Croydon we are committed to funding these initiatives.


1. A thriving and lively cultural offer which engages communities and supports regeneration.

2. A place that is easy and safe for all to get to and move around in.

3. A supportive network for carers that enables them to sustain relationships whilst continuing their caring role.


• Bringing together the four key partners to deliver services to carers through the Carers Support partnership.

• The provision of social activities and interventions including pilates, book clubs, carers choir, dancing, massage and carers cafés.

• Almost 34,000 carers supported over the course of the year.

The case study on the following page demonstrates the difference that this funding is making.

THEME 2A connected borough where no one is isolated


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Loneliness and isolation have a profound effect on health and wellbeing. The centre provides a range of social activities and interventions including Pilates, Book Club, Carers Choir, dancing, massage, and Carers Café. Almost 34,000 carers have been supported over the course of the year at the Carers Partnership.

The graph below shows the results from an “I” statements survey. The survey was carried out with service users and shows majority strongly agree that the Community Fund Carers Support programme is a positive service

I feel better informed

I feel more supported

My health and wellbeing have improved

I have had a break from caring

I feel better able to cope

I feel less isolated

I have met other carers

I have gained useful skills

THE CARERS SUPPORT PARTNERSH IP

Case study 4

The Carers Support Partnership have delivered a well-respected and exceptional hub for various services which bring together four key partners: The Whitgift Foundation’s Carers’ Information Service (lead), Mind in Croydon, Parents in Partnership and Croydon Mencap. They are well regarded and have a high impact in the borough.

78%51%

70%

74%

87%

75%

79%

79%


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Mary, Befriending volunteer: The volunteer work I do is probably not a big amount. The work however, makes a big difference to the people I speak to and I know this only because the people I speak to will tell me.

I feel quite humbled and get a great deal of satisfaction knowing that I have helped these people in some small way. The people I work with are wonderful and work very hard while still making me welcome. I just enjoy doing something for the community.

Margaret, Befriending Coordinator: We befriend elderly carers and families who care for elderly relatives. We receive referrals from a number of sources including Social Services, G.P. Practices, and Alzheimer’s Society, family, friends and self-referrals.

As part of my role I give our clients a weekly call or a home visit depending on their needs. We can talk about whatever they wish to talk about, it could be they just want to have a little moan or it could be the price of eggs. From my point of view the most important thing for me to do is listen. If I feel concerned about something they say or perhaps think there is a safeguarding issue then I will report it to the relevant organisation.

An example of this is an elderly couple we had referred to us by Social Services two years ago to act as their eyes and ears. The couple had no family or friends and

were extremely isolated and lonely. There only outing was a weekly trip to Sainsbury’s or Marks and Spencer. At first they couldn’t understand why we were there and thought of us as an intrusion, however a year later and after a catalogue of events which sadly resulted in Mr Smith passing away, Mrs Smith has become 100% reliant on us. We took her to register her husband’s death and escorted her to his funeral. We now call and visit her several times a week, take her for her weekly food shop and a coffee which gets her out of the house and accompany her many appointments that come through such as hospital, optician, Doctors etc. We have helped with other tasks from organising a plumber when the heating broke down to buying a new radio for the kitchen.

Sue, CNCA Manager: Our Community Fund bid was to provide a service to older carers and befriend them. The common denominator of many of the referrals is that one half of the couple lives with dementia, which leads to them being very lonely and isolated. Our initial referrals from social care were to help and be “eyes and ears”. One of our first clients was a 94 year old lady caring for her son in his seventies with complex mental health problems. She asked us to support her opening some letters which actually transpired to be a four-foot pile of unopened post. However, contained within were 27 missed hospital appointments alone. The work is long term and provides intense support.

Mary’s story: being a telephone Befriending volunteer at CNCA

CROYDON NE IGHBOURHOOD CARE ASSOC IAT ION– CARERS BEFR IEND ING PRO JECT

Case study 5


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£610K has been committed to the Supporting Residents Towards Better Times theme over 3 years. Delivery in this theme focuses on achieving positive outcomes in two broad areas:

• Supporting flexible and inclusive employment opportunities.

• Supporting health and wellbeing in the communities.

Flexible and Inclusive Employment

Residents told the Opportunity and Fairness Commission that they would like to see local employers doing more to recruit disabled people and those from Black, Minority and Ethnic (BME) backgrounds. The Commission also found that female workers wanted better support with childcare and caring responsibilities to access the jobs market. Through this funding we wanted to work with VCSE sector to address some of what we had heard.


• The Empowering Mothers, a transformational partnership project between My OutSpace and All Inclusive Training that has been set up by mothers of Croydon for mothers/carers to support those the most at risk of exclusion and disadvantage with a complex range of barriers that local mothers face particularly women from ethnic minorities communities.

• Reduced social isolation, increased digital inclusion, training for mothers/carers, access to employment or self-employment opportunities and the provision of support with childcare for women from BME background.


THEME 3Supporting residents towards better times


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Nadia Ali had a challenging motherhood, raising her four children, 2 of whom are disabled. She experienced depression, denial, bipolar syndrome and financial challenges, however she never gave up. When she contacted My OutSpace she was looking for volunteering opportunities to help other mothers.

Nadia received mentoring support to run peer-to-peer support groups in local libraries and always thought she could do more to help other mothers. Nadia is now running Budgeting courses for mothers across the whole borough. She has put together a fantastic workbook to help other mothers to build their financial capabilities providing tools and techniques families can use to do family budgeting.

She continues to run peer-to-peer support groups currently on average 20 mothers in Selsdon, Ashburton and Thornton Heath libraries have benefited from these. Nadia has had fantastic feedback from her courses so far and aims to run at least one each month.

Nadia is now inspiring other mothers when they are feeling low, losing their self-esteem to gain support and feel proud of what they have achieved as a parent.

“My OutSpace has been great support in my career journey, it helped me to build my confidence, get access to further training and find employment. My advice to any mother out there who feel they are not able to be at their best – never give up! It is usually mothers who struggle the most. I would highly recommend My OutSpace for their support and will encourage mothers to get in touch.” Nadia Ali

NAD IA’S S TORY

From raising 4 children, 2 with disabilities and being unemployed for 18 years to getting a job, helping and inspiring other mothers.

It is usual ly mothers who struggle the most.

Case study 6


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The Annual Report of the Director of Public Health for 2017 identified a number of significant inequalities in health outcomes in the borough. The causes of these inequalities are multi-factorial and deep rooted. The Community Fund contributes to mitigating those inequalities by supporting services aimed at improving health and wellbeing of residents.

The key outcome to date:

• Improved access to outdoor leisure opportunities to promote physical activity and mental wellbeing in the most deprived areas of the borough particularly one that is responsive to the diverse community.


HEALTH AND WELLBE ING


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Through the Active Life Programme the service supports people with mental health problems to improve their social networks, wellbeing and recovery through various healthy lifestyle group activities and one to one support. The service is available to anyone with a mental health problem or who is isolated and would like to improve their wellbeing by developing a healthier lifestyle. Groups are led by volunteers to ensure the ongoing sustainability of each group. The service supports

people with mental health problems to improve their social networks, wellbeing and recovery through various healthy lifestyle group activities and one to one support.

The service is available to anyone with a mental health problem or who is isolated and would like to improve their wellbeing by developing a healthier lifestyle. Groups are led by volunteers to ensure the ongoing sustainability of each group.

The service mainly targets adults with mental health problems with a particular focus on supporting people who are isolated in the community and those with severe and enduring mental health problems. They are also delivering under the Carers Support Partnership.

Quote from service user “The computer classes at the Mind centre have been extremely useful as I have been doing free online internet training courses which have taught me very useful things. These skills include: learning how to use computer equipment, learning how to set up an email and Facebook account, as well as how to search for jobs and upload a C.V. I have also learnt how to access online G.P. services, how to set up Internet Security and undertake online shopping or online banking. Additionally I have learnt how to access Public Services online.

All the information that I have been taught is very important to know in order for us to manage our day to day affairs on the computer.”

Case study 7

MIND IN CROYDON ACT IVE M INDS Mind in Croydon is working to promote good mental health. It seeks to empower people to lead a full life as part of their local community.

The compu te r c l a s ses a t t he M ind cen t r e ha ve been e x t r eme l y u se f u l 9 3% 90%

USERS OF THE SERV ICE USERS OF THE SERV ICEUSERS OF THE SERV ICE7 0%

have t r i e d a new ac t i v i t y

f e e l s t r onge r (mo r e r e s i l i e n t ) a s an i n d i v i dua l

i n c r eas i n g engagemen t i n one y ea r


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Good Food Ma t t e r s

Good Gym

The Conse r v a t i on Vo l un t ee r s

Whee l s f o r We l l b e i n g

W i l d i n t he C i t y

THE CROYDON NATURAL HEALTH SERV ICE

The Croydon Natural Health Service is a consortium consisting of the following five organisations:

Case study 8

The Natural Health Service is an excellent addition to the thriving voluntary and community sector, creating many volunteering opportunities, new partnerships, and long lasting impacts on people’s lives. Wellbeing improved across all communities through sport and physical activity across the whole borough.


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Good Food Matters is a Croydon based charity dedicated to supporting people in the community to build healthier lifestyles. They do this through teaching students about food growing, cooking and nutrition.

Good Gym is a charity where volunteers can take part in the following activities run groups to take part in manual labour for community organisations and also make social visits to isolated older people whom they call coaches because they motivate the runner to keep going. • Run missions for

vulnerable people.• Clearing gardens.• Changing lightbulbs.• Doing odd-jobs for

people who struggle to do them alone.

The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) is a community volunteering charity. They run a programme called the Green Gym which is their health offer. The Green Gym is a weekly 3 hour outdoor activity session. Volunteers complete practical conservation tasks such as planting seeds, cleaning ponds and litter picking.

Wheels for Wellbeing is a charity running drop-in inclusive cycling sessions for disabled people and their families, carers or friends, from three bases in South London.

Wild in the City is a Croydon based supporting health and wellbeing through connection to nature. They work from parks and woods offering bushcraft, forest school children, families, adults and nature-based psychotherapy training for professionals. Their services support the development of positive relationships in and with nature, helping people to create healthier lives.

THE CROYDON NATURAL HEALTH SERV ICE

Case study 8


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“My Sunday had got off to a bad start, running late and a bit grouchy, but heading into the hidden countryside behind New Addington soon helped me let that go. Especially as within a few minutes of setting out we were lucky enough to see a hunting Kestrel hovering overhead!

It was a pleasure to spend time with everyone, all so keen to share their knowledge and experiences of nature, and to work together to get the camp fire lit in the afternoon. I feel really fortunate to have had that time in camp, sitting, learning and sharing and to have been made so welcome.”

Case study 8

ROSS ’ S TORY

We we r e l u ck y enough t o s ee a hun t i n g Kes t r e l h o ve r i n g o v e r head !


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Food Skills for Life with Revivify is an initiative based in the learning centre in New Addington. It enables everyone to cook and grow healthy and nutritious balanced meals that include a fundamental understanding of what a balanced diet involves. Meals are tailored to the individual so that over the long term they can enjoy better health and wellbeing and reduce the likelihood of developing serious chronic conditions.

Many of the participants that have engaged in the programme are of low income, poor diet, negative behaviour patterns, drug and alcohol problems, social isolation, and low self-esteem. They provide targeted support to people with physical disabilities, and people with barriers to their development. Volunteering is an integral element of the program, developing our collective approach to harness local assets to tackle local issues.

The outcome of this work programme has been:

• Delivered over 100 food packages. - Engaged with 70 food bank service users.

• 40 participants with low incomes have reported positive benefits in their lives as a result of taking part in the program.

• 30 socially isolated or incapacitated residents have reported improved socialisation after engaging with this project. - Improved access to fresh locally grown

and/or organic food.

GOOD FOOD MATTERS PRO JECT


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The Family Centre in Fieldway New Addington has been instrumental in supporting residents towards better times by helping local people from all communities’ live longer, healthier lives and through positive lifestyle choices. Families are healthy resilient and able to maximise their life chances and independence.

The impact of loneliness on our health and wellbeing.

Loneliness is a bigger problem than simply an emotional experience. Research shows that loneliness and social isolation are harmful to our health: lacking social connections is a comparable risk factor for early death. Living alone can also sometimes increase risks to their health, wellbeing and mental state however, having community groups and social activities can be a lifesaver for some.

Mrs A is a widow, and has two grown up daughters that no longer live at home. Mrs A has taken part in all the events that have been run through the Birchwood club such as, arts and crafts, card making, digital workshops and community café.

Mrs A has a growing group of friends that she attends with. On one occasion Mrs A did not arrive at the local shops where she meets up with other attendees. Her friends informed the staff at Birchwood Club. The

staff tried calling Mrs A but was unable to get any answer. As she was a regular beneficiary and had made arrangements to meet up with her peers, it was decided that a home visit was needed. Staff went to home and found Mrs A on the kitchen floor. Staff called an ambulance and her emergency contact, and waited with her until they had both arrived.

Mrs A was taken to hospital where she was diagnosed with having suffered a stroke. The Community Café friends were remarkable in keeping Mrs A safe and well. The team had found her in time, they were able to medicate accordingly. Mrs A spent about one month in hospital and then returned home when she was able to see her friends and they carried a lunch for her from the Birchwood Club on a weekly basis until she was well enough to return to the Café. This provided Mrs A with the right care and support for her to remain safely in her own home. Mrs A and her family visited the centre to show their appreciation for the support that they had been given and to show their gratitude for their quick response to her situation.

Mrs A has now returned to Birchwood Club but is assisted by another member to travel to and from the Centre, and walks with a frame. Mrs A is having regular physio therapy, and is making good progress.

MRS A’S S TORY

Case study 9

Mrs A has been attending the Birchwood club since it first started back in November 2015. She is 69 years old and is a resident of Fieldway and New Addington.


25

£830K was committed to the Leaving No Child Behind theme over 3 years. A key objective for this theme is to support the outcome of reducing child poverty in the most deprived wards and to support well established youth providers to help young people make positive life choices.


1. Children and vulnerable adults are protected from harm and exploitation.

2. Youth community provision is supported.

3. Domestic abuse and sexual violence is prevented where possible, victims are supported and perpetrators held to account.

There are approximately 93,000 young people living in Croydon – more than anywhere else in London. The Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index (IDACI) 2015 has shown that areas of Fieldway and Heathfield (Shrublands) have a higher proportion of children and young people 0-19 who experience child poverty at over 40%. In Fieldway 70% of the population is recorded as white, high levels of unemployment

and people claiming benefits. In addition 50% of households have dependent children and there is a high proportion of lone parent families.

To ensure there is a good diverse youth provision in the borough youth partners are delivering excellent services to the most disadvantaged.

In Croydon, communities are changing fast with the borough having one of the fastest growing BME populations in London. More than 50% of children and young people are from a BME background and approximately 47% of adults. More than 100 languages are spoken across the borough. Croydon also has the largest number of unaccompanied asylum seeking children, and our residents speak more than 100 languages. Croydon has a great sense of community pride but social cohesion is challenged when there are poor community relations and people from different backgrounds do get on and live isolated from each other.

The Opportunity and Fairness Commission said that residents told them that too often there was a lack of respect amongst people living in their area and insufficient shared ownership of problems. Many residents mentioned people from different backgrounds moving into their local area and their

struggle to create strong integrated communities especially at times when national or international activity can cause concern locally.

Croydon’s youth providers work in partnership with the Council and other key agencies on Choose Your Future campaign, which aims to raise young people’s awareness of knife crime and encourages them to make positive choices.

Croydon Drop In (CDI) provides advice and counselling to young people. They recently championed the Choose Your Future campaign events. The aim was to raise awareness of knife crime and the negative impact it can have on young people. Their advice and counselling sessions help young people to talk and seek help with the emotional issues.


THEME 4Leaving no child behind


26

Play Place business model provides core activities for young people. It also works in partnership with other youth providers in the borough to develop and strengthen their skills, processes and resources. The organisation provides capacity building to Purley Youth organisation, which has recieved a small grant and support developing policies and procedures.

It has recruited 40 volunteers and hired equipment for events and festivals – the profit for this income is then generated back into the social mission and re-invested into communities.

Case study 10

PL AY PL ACE

Play Place is a boosting example of a social enterprise delivering an essential service. Youth and Community Fun programme and having greater impact on the local community.


27

“I have learned so much from the coaches and the support I have been given has been amazing. I have seen my confidence increase, I am now able to communicate with other young people and also in the work place. I never knew the foundation supported so much and I have been given different opportunities, they have supported me in college through a 4 week placement, a residential trip through its youth forum and its partners. Without programmes like these I would have found it difficult to know my own pathway and organisations like Palace open so many doors for young people.”

Through mentoring and supporting Ben on his journey he was able to unravel his story and his experiences with the volunteering being an outlet for him to get away from bad influences. Ben began to open up after his time at the Foundation and we learned that a lot of the people ben was associating himself with were involved in anti-social behaviour and theft. Ben said this about the group “The whole group of people that I was hanging around with are all in prison, thanks to Michael

and Palace for Life foundation I got away from them.”

Community Fund supports the work Palace for Life Foundation delivers to young people in South London, by funding the ‘Develop through Sport Community Programme’. This programmes allows young people to receive term and holiday time sporting activities to improve physical health and educate on issue based work. Young people accessing the Community Fund through the Foundation, then have the opportunity to be involved in the multitude of activities the Foundation delivers in areas such as employment, health and social inclusion.

Develop through Sport Community Programme (DTSC Programme) is another good example of youth provision where young people are engaged and supported into positive activities.

Results from the service user survey, show the following outcomes:

BEN ’S S TORY

Tailored support for Ben Bracken to choose a positive pathway

Case study 11

350 70% 69%young people engaged

through football and sportsaid they felt more confident and supported to make better choices

of total participants indicate an improvement in their own self confidence and mental wellbeing

PALA

CE FOR LIFE

fou n datio

n


28

Since 2011 as a response to the riots in Croydon, Reaching Higher have been running a 4-week summer scheme called Summer Blitz. Now supported by Community Fund the aim is to engage disadvantaged young people aged 12-16 in positive activities. These include a range of performing arts (dance, music and drama), sports, activities (cooking, arts and crafts), life skill workshops (financial management) and day trips. We create a coaching environment, where volunteer mentors work with the young people to build their self-esteem, confidence and are able to develop problem solving, communication, teamwork and leadership.

Reaching Higher has reported a team of over 50 volunteers who work across all our projects with a range of backgrounds and skills. Over half of the volunteers are past beneficiaries demonstrating our “Full Circle” approach. They reinvest in the next generation offering the same support that Reaching Higher was able to give them. The social value and impact is certainly high. They work and nurture young people with limitless amounts of potential, talent and ability and facilitate to unlock it. Through well-respected relational approach to work, the result has been a generation of young adults willing and excited to reinvest in other young people.

The Community Fund also supports the Full Circle project run by Reaching Higher that supports young people as they transition out of care into

independence. Young people are paired with a mentor who helps them navigate the leaving care pathway plan and build up their confidence as they think about their career, managing a household and managing their finances. The impact of this project can be reflected through the story of Emma.

Emma is a 17 year old girl who has been in foster care from the age of 2. To help Emma build her self‑confidence we paired her with a mentor who at the time was studying for a Masters in Theatre Studies. The intention was to choose someone who had an immediate common area of interest with Emma. With ongoing support from her mentor Emma began to attend drama workshops confident enough to speak up in groups and share her thoughts and. She was also able to make friends with some of the other young people in the group.

By participating in the Full Circle programme, Emma was able to meet other young people in the same position as her facing the same challenges helped Emma feel less isolated. Full Circle also offered her a new support network that she could have on going access to if needed.

More recently, Emma was encouraged by her mentor to become a volunteer as a way to stay within the Reaching Higher network. She has since been offered a role as part of the drama workshop team once she turns 18.

REACH ING H IGHER

Full Circle Summer Blitz

Case study 12


29

Services include:

• Drop-In support service (open door policy).

• Counselling service.

• Counselling In schools.

• Advocacy and advice.

• Outreach Health and Wellbeing Education.

• Talkbus.

• The Voice Young Peoples’ Group.

CROYDON DROP IN SERV ICE

Case study 13

Providing free, confidential services to young people 11-25 who live, work or study in the borough of Croydon.

I enjoyed just being able to talk to someone without any pressure or worry.

This was nice and calm. I’ve got the advice I needed.

I think that the Talkbus is really useful if you are feeling down. They give good advice

and are really nice. Thank you Talkbus.

This was really beneficial and it helps just to have some time to talk to someone

who will listen and will not judge you.

I found it useful to speak about my anger issues because I haven’t spoken about it before

and I learned different techniques on how to claim down and recognise when I’m about to flip. It was a good chat.

Young people’s feedback:


30

£381K has been committed to the Finding Homes for All theme over 3 years. How homelessness occurs is complex and there is no one factor that can trigger it or is necessary for it to occur. Factors relating to an individual, their relationships, housing and employment all play a part. The affordability of homes to rent or buy, as well as housing and welfare policies have a direct impact. Individual factors including vulnerability, mental and physical health, support needs, addiction and substance misuse can play a part, and may be exacerbated by poverty and disadvantage.

Through this funding we wanted to work with the VCSE sector to prevent homelessness, provide advice and information to those people in housing need and at risk of homelessness, and engage with and support people sleeping rough with a view to helping them “move off” the streets.


1. To provide a decent, safe and affordable home for every local resident who needs one.

2. To tackle street homelessness and destitution.


• 171 homeless people have been supported by a Housing Coach and/or a Progression Coach.

• 53 people have improved their housing situation, for example moving from rough sleeping to a night shelter or from a night shelter to a homeless hostel.


THEME 5Finding homes for all


31

At 40 years old Neville decided that he wanted to give his children a better education so he decided to go into the hotel business and bought a hotel in Llandudno in North Wales. He lived there with his family and had a very successful business.

During the recession and his business and marriage broke down. Suddenly he found myself with no business, no home and no family. Neville decided come back to London and ended up in Croydon. He was unable to get the support directly from the Council as he had not been living in Croydon for a year. Neville ended up walking to the park in front of the council office and there was a gentleman sitting on a bench. They started talking and what follows is Neville’s own words.

“The man asked if I had heard of Crisis in Surrey street, I thought he was joking and saying that there was a crisis on Surrey Street. He then gave me a card and I phoned the number and made an appointment to see someone the next day”

Neville arrived at the Crisis office:

“I was made to feel welcome with a nice cup of coffee and was given a timetable of all the things to do and how Crisis could help me. Through support of Crisis I have now a nice place to live, and have attended classes that have helped improve my IT skills and well as improving my confidences and self‑esteem.

One of the exciting things I was involved with at Crisis was that I took part in a singing group that went on to link with Ralph Mc Tell and sing his famous song Streets of London. This was recorded and hit the charts over the Christmas period. I was one of the people to be starred in the video and was in the choir that was on at the London Palladium and on Chanel 4 news.

I started volunteering for Crisis a about a year ago and this have given me confidence to come out and talk in front of groups of people that I didn’t think I would be able in the past but now it is something I really enjoy doing.

I am currently searching for a job in driving where I can meet and greet people and am working with a Work Coach in Crisis to achieve this aim.

Case study 14

NEV I L LE ’S S TORY

Neville is 62 years old. He was mostly educated in Jamaica and came to London when I was 15 years old. He attended school for one year before needing to go to work to support his parents. Neville took on variety of jobs and eventually became a taxi driver where he worked hard and at the age of 35 had he had his own house and a wife and four children to support.

I t n e ve r o ccu r r ed t o me t ha t I c ou l d end up home l e s s .


32

An annual showcase and exhibition event was held on Monday 5th February at Croydon Park Hotel. The aim of the event was to come together and celebrate the key achievements with a range of partners, we also invited local people to share their stories.

The event also aimed to highlight the dedication and innovation emerging from the programme and share good practice. Peter Holbrook, CEO of Social Enterprise UK was the guest speaker on the day.

The celebratory programme was designed to highlight the impact on communities. Residents, service users and volunteers shared their stories and experiences and articulated how the Community Fund programme has made a difference to their lives.

The event brought together around 100 people, including VCSE sector, residents, and service users.

The occasion was welcomed by all as an excellent opportunity to come together and celebrate how the programme is changing lives and delivering better outcomes for local people.

SHOWCASE EVENT

An annual showcase and exhibition event was held on Monday 5th February at Croydon Park Hotel.


33

Vibrant and responsible communities

A connected borough where no one is isolated

Supporting residents towards better times

Leaving no child behind

Homes for all

Total

£2,216,860

£1,809,588

£609,504

£829,918

£381,000

£5,846,870

APPEND IX 1Total Community Fund investment broken down into themes

Theme Total funding

Total funding awarded by theme

Vibrant and

responsible

communities

Homes for all

Supporting residents

towards better times

A connected borough where no one is isolated

Leaving no child behind

38%

31%

7%

14%

10%


34

Asian Resource Centre of Croydon Limited

Partnership approach of 15 Asian Community organisations, our mission is to support, develop and promote voluntary and community activity that enhances the quality of life in Croydon.

Our programmes offer a core strengthening of the Asian VCS, using an ABCD methodology we have created a strong partnership to build family resilience, combat social isolation, enable volunteering opportunities.

Contact

Ima Miah, Director of Operations

CVA Resource Centre 82, London Road, Croydon, CRO 2TB

[email protected]

020 8684 3784

Croydon BME Forum: Specialist Local Infrastructure Services

Empowering BME voluntary and community sector organizations; and social enterprises in developing their people, systems and structures so that they are better able to deliver quality services to their users.

Contact

Andrew Brown

56a Mitcham Road, Croydon, CR0 3RG

[email protected]

020 8684 3719

APPEND IX 1Theme 1

mailto:info%40arccltd.com?subject=

mailto:info%40bmeforum.org?subject=


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Croydon Voluntary Action

CVA is a membership umbrella organisation providing leadership and support to voluntary sector groups, residents and communities in Croydon. Our services under the ‘Community Fund’ include:

• Information service: a regular newsletter for voluntary sector groups and social enterprises, packed with information on local projects, events, training for professionals, funding and commissioning opportunities. We can publicise your community events on the newsletter and our website!

• Training provision: a range of free and/or affordable training sessions and events for employees and volunteers of local community groups. Training includes ‘Basic Fundraising skills’, ‘How to set up a charity or social enterprise’, ‘Meet the Funder’ events and more. We also provide some one-to-one support by email, telephone or in person.

• Support for groups managing volunteers: good practice support (training and one-to-one) to voluntary sector groups, helping them to maintain high standards in the management of volunteers. Organisations can also join our Volunteer Management Forum to share experiences and ideas about how to develop and manage volunteer programmes.

• Hire a venue: we provide affordable meeting and office space to charitable and community groups in Croydon at four community centres.

www.cvalive.org.uk/venue-hire

• Networking opportunities: regular meetings of our network for voluntary sector groups, the Croydon Voluntary Sector Alliance (CVSA), allowing local organization to network, shape potential partnerships, influence local decision making and discuss important topics. We also host and support Faiths Together in Croydon, a network of local faith leaders.

http://faithstogetherincroydon.org.uk

• Empowerment of citizens based democracy: we elect voluntary sector representatives, who sit on a range of Partnership boards and steering groups within the Council, bringing the voice of the sector and users on the table. CVA also sits on local strategic partnership Boards, Chief Executives Groups, thematic partnerships and associated executive/task and finish groups to represent the voice of its members. As the lead organisation of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD), although not funded through the Community Fund, we offer a UK wide training programme in strategic partnership with Nurture Development and mentor/support to other Croydon based and UK wide groups wanting to deliver ABCD.

• Volunteering: if you are a local resident and would like to volunteer your time, make friends and gain new skills, come to our Team Croydon shop, which is based on the ground floor of the Centrale shopping centre! There are hundreds of opportunities available, these range from regular volunteering at a local community group to occasional support to Croydon’s vibrant cultural, sports and other events/festivals.

www.cvalive.org.uk/volunteering

Contact

Sara Milocco and Sarah Burns at the CVA Resource Centre, telephone 020 8253 7060

Karen Chillman at the Team Croydon Shop (Volunteer Centre), telephone 020 8253 7070

CVA Resource Centre, 82 London Road, Croydon, CR0 2TB (for our information, training and networking support)

Team Croydon Shop, Centrale Shopping Centre, North End, Croydon, CR0 1TY (for our volunteer centre)

CVA Resource Centre: 9:30am - 5pm Monday to Friday

Team Croydon Shop (volunteer centre): Monday to Thursday 10am - 5:30pm Friday to Saturday 10am - 5pm

APPEND IX 1Theme 1

http://www.cvalive.org.uk/venue-hire

http://faithstogetherincroydon.org.uk

http://www.cvalive.org.uk/volunteering


36

Croydon Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association

The aim of Neighbourhood Watch Croydon is to bring neighbours together to create strong, friendly, active communities where crime and anti-social behaviour are less likely to happen.

Neighbourhood Watch is a Charity which encourages residents to get together to combat local problems and enables the members to work with the police and local council to take action to resolve them.

It encourages people to be good neighbours and look out for each other, especially the vulnerable and elderly. It helps to create a united, caring community and a safe and pleasant environment in which to live and work.

Sharing information with other Watches in the local area, and with the Croydon Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association, it provides a network of support from which residents can all benefit

Once registered, members of a Watch can display window stickers and street signs to show that it is an active Watch area and this may help to deter crime

Contact

[email protected] for information on how to become a NHW Co-ordinator or visit our website www.cbnwa.com

Croydon Citizens Advice Croydon

Citizens Advice Croydon provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to individuals on their rights and responsibilities. It values diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. It also improves the policies and practices that affect people’s lives.

Contact

Caroline Mack

48-50 Portland Road, South Norwood, SE25 4PQ

[email protected] www.citizensadvicecroydon.org www.citizensadvicecroydon.info

020 8684 2236

APPEND IX 1Theme 1

mailto:nhw%40cbnwa.com?subject=

http://www.cbnwa.com

mailto:ceo%40croydoncab.org.uk?subject=

http://www.citizensadvicecroydon.org

http://www.citizensadvicecroydon.info


37

Croydon Disability Forum

CDF supports and helps disabled people to live a fully independent life. We raise awareness of the issues and barriers facing disabled people on a day to day basis, especially in Croydon. We challenge those who, through ignorance or thoughtlessness, act to make life more difficult for the disabled and those who care for the disabled.

We hold regular Forum meetings that include presentations and speakers to explore what may affect or benefit our members. We also work with other like-minded groups for the benefit of people with disabilities.

Contact

Adrian Dennis, CDF Chair

[email protected] [email protected]

020 8653 7256

Phase 1 Enterprise Training Ltd CIC

Empowering Mothers of Croydon. Set up by mothers of Croydon for mothers/carers of Croydon to target local mothers/carers most at risk of exclusion and disadvantage. My OutSpace offers the following services under Community Fund:

• Digital skills training.

• Financial capability training with an opportunity to gain a Level 2 qualification.

• Employability training.

• Business advice and mentoring.

• Access to networking opportunities.

Contact

Yuliana Topazly

Phase 1 Enterprise Training Ltd. CIC T/A My OutSpace Business Centre, 16 South End, Croydon, CR0 1DN

[email protected]

020 3603 1140

APPEND IX 1Theme 1

mailto:adriandennis%40btinternet.com?subject=

mailto:disability%40cdfoffice.co.uk?subject=

mailto:yuliana%40myoutspace.co.uk?subject=


38

APPEND IX 1Theme 1

Purley Cross Centre

The Purley Cross Centre is a community information centre located in the heart of Purley. It is accessible to people of all ages and connects residents and visitors to the services they need and local activities which interest them. With the increased requirement for digital skills due to services being offered online, web based form filling, online social networks – the centre is essential for people who are unable access or use digital technology on their own.

As well as providing its own in-house computer training, the Purley Cross Centre currently partners with a variety of agencies and services across the borough. These include Age UK, Advice Services Croydon, CAB (online referrals), Staying Put (Croydon Council), Streeter Marshall Solicitors and counselling services. We also hire our rooms out to Tax Help for Older People and the NHS South London and Maudsley Reablement service.

Contact

Leo Cardow, Manager

Purley Cross Centre, 24 High Street, Purley, CR8 2AA

[email protected] www.purleycrosscentre.org

020 8668 4189

South West London Law Centre

SWLLC Croydon – Legal Action for Local Communities. We run free evening advice clinics in Croydon on a Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday covering a wide range of legal issues such as Housing, Immigration, Family, Crime and Wills and Probate.

Contact

Patrick Marples

South West London Law Centres, 5th Floor Davis House, Robert Street, CR0 1Q

[email protected]

020 8767 2777

mailto:manager%40purleycrosscentre.org?subject=

http://www.purleycrosscentre.org

mailto:info%40swllc.org?subject=


39

APPEND IX 1Theme 2

Croydon Accessible Transport

Accessible community transport, training and vehicle pooling services, the service aims to improve mobility and health in Croydon’s older citizens, improve wellbeing among Croydon’s more isolated citizens.

Contact

Robert Macchi

Cornerstone House 14 Willis Road Croydon, Surrey, CR0 2XX


020 8665 0861

Croydon Neighbourhood Care Association (CNCA)

Carer’s Befriending service for over 65s. A bespoke intensive service for carers, looking after someone with complex needs over 65 years. The befriending service provides a home visit and intensive support around day-to-day care and hospital appointments. There is also a telephone befriending service. Our “keeping in touch“ service takes the form of a text or email, and also uses Facebook and Twitter to keep Carers informed about local events and support networks. There are also various events and trips held throughout the year.

Contact

Susan McVicker

CNCA, Central Hall, Davidsons Lodge, Freemason’s Road, Croydon, CR0 6PD

[email protected]

020 8654 4440

Help for Carers – Carers Assessment Services

An independent carers assessment is undertaken by a professionally trained and sensitive assessment officer. Assessments can take place in the recipient’s home.

Contact

Lisa Taylor

Croydon Carers Centre, George Street, Croydon

020 8663 5664

Help for CarersA free 50 hours of Homecare service is available for all Croydon-based carers who either work, live or look after someone in the borough of Croydon. Homecare is provided in a minimum of a 2 hour care visit. All care workers are professionally trained, police checked and able to provide personal care and companionship.

Contact

Avril Doyle

Help for Carers Vestry Hall, London Road, Mitcham, Surrey, CR4 3UD

[email protected]

020 8648 9677

mailto:robmacchi%40croydonaccessibletransport.org.uk?subject=

mailto:robmacchi%40btinternet.com?subject=

mailto:info%40cnca.org.uk?subject=

mailto:referrals%40helpforcarers.org.uk?subject=


40

APPEND IX 1Theme 2

Horizon Care and Welfare Association

Carers Support Project. Short breaks and respite can be organised on an emergency basis. We also offer pre-booked and scheduled appointments. We have an emergency contact number that allows carers who need emergency support to get a break.

We provide weekly support group meetings and organise outings twice a year for carers overcome with stress. We also organise health workshops.

Contact

Anab Osman

Horizon Care and Welfare Association, 79 Park Lane, Croydon, CR0 1JG

[email protected]

020 8665 0921

Royal Association for Deaf people

Croydon Deaf Choice, in the Community. We aim to cater for deaf Croydon residents

• Aged 16-65.

• Parents with deaf children.

• Young carers, children of deaf parents.

• Deaf carers.

• Carers of deaf adults.

Founded in 1841, The Royal Association for Deaf people (RAD) provides services to Deaf people in their first language which is usually British Sign Language (BSL) and supports mainstream providers to be more accessible to Deaf people. Funded by the Croydon Community Fund, RAD hosts topical events and educational workshops fully accessible to Croydon’s Deaf Adults, Parents of Deaf Children, Carers and Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs).

Contact

Laura Brown

Royal Association for Deaf people Century House South Riverside Office Centre, Essex, CO1 1RE

[email protected] [email protected] contact [email protected] www.royaldeaf.org.uk

Voice phone: 0845 688 2525 / 07467 914173 Text phone: 0845 688 252 SMS: 07851 423 866

mailto:horizoncareandwelfare%40hotmail.com?subject=

mailto:laura.brown%40royaldeaf.org.uk?subject=

mailto:linda.parkin%40royaldeaf.org.uk?subject=

mailto:contact%20info%40royaldeaf.org.uk?subject=

http://www.royaldeaf.org.uk


41

APPEND IX 1Theme 2

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre

Provision of an Independent Domestic/Sexual Violence Advocate in the Family Justice Centre. We ensure that women suffering from domestic violence that are isolated, and their children, are protected from harm and exploitation and that perpetrators are brought to justice.

Contact

Yvonne Traynor

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre RASASC, PO Box 383, CR9 2AW

[email protected]

020 8683 3311

Carers Support Partnership

The Carers’ Information Service runs the Carers Support Centre in George Street, the one stop shop for carers in Croydon. Carers can drop in Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm for information, advice and support. Support available for carers at the Centre includes drop-in information and advice, casework support for carers with more complex issues, a Carers Café open on weekday mornings, health and wellbeing events, specialist advice surgeries, a comprehensive range of informative publications, a quarterly newsletter, monthly carers’ e-bulletin, emotional support, support groups and carers’ workshops.

Contact

Helen Thompson

The Whitgift Foundation – Carers’ Information Service, Carers Support Centre, 24 George Street, Croydon, CR0 1PB

[email protected]

020 8649 9339 – option 1

mailto:info%40rasasc.org.uk?subject=

mailto:helenthompson%40carersinfo.org.uk?subject=


42

APPEND IX 1Theme 3

Good Food Matters and Revivify Community Initiative

Joint initiative to ensure fresh produce is distributed to those who may not always have access to it, food skills for life, enhance the lives of women, youths and those excluded in our local community, through community involvement and development training.

A range of sessions per year focused on those most disadvantaged covering topics such as:

• Cookery skills.

• Introduction to nutrition and a balanced diets.

• Food budgeting and planning.

• Foodbank basics cooking – using the average provisions and cooking balanced meals.

• Developing online/recipe/resources book.

Contact

Amanda Mcgrath

Good Food Matters and Revivify Community Initiative (previously community food bank) Mickleman Way, New Addington, CR0 0PN


01689 847 605 / 07715 905 033 and 020 8633 1630 / 07757 754 637

Metro Centre Ltd – Metro Croydon HIV Healthy Living Service

This programme brings together various services for people living with and affected by HIV in Croydon. These services include:

• Advice and Advocacy for people living with HIV (housing, welfare benefits).

• Family Support (support for children and parents).

• Positive Peer Support groups (youth groups and adult groups).

• Counselling services for people living with HIV.

• Volunteering and professional training services.

Contact

Edith Ntabyera

Services provided in various locations in Croydon

[email protected]

020 8305 5000 / 020 8305 5006 / 07964 450 930

mailto:amanda%40goodfoodmatters.org.uk?subject=

mailto:revivifyci%40hotmail.com?subject=

mailto:edith%40metrocharity.org.uk?subject=


43

APPEND IX 1Theme 3

Mind in Croydon Ltd – Active Minds

Physical and mental wellbeing are intertwined, a healthy mind needs a healthy body and a healthy body needs a healthy mind. Active Minds can encourage you to look after your wellbeing by supporting you to become more physically active and develop your knowledge on healthy living issues, like the importance of nutrition, sleep, relaxation and leisure time.

Active Minds, Orchard House, 15A Purley Road, South Croydon, CR2 6EZ

[email protected]

020 8253 8205/6

Carers’ CounsellingAre you a Croydon resident providing unpaid support for family or friends who could not manage without your help? Are you caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, elderly, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems? If so you can apply for six free counselling sessions with our Carers’ Counselling Service.

As a carer you may face a number of difficulties which are hard to deal with emotionally and which cause you distress. Counselling can provide you with an opportunity to talk about these emotional difficulties with someone who is trained to listen. It can help you to understand what you are experiencing and to see the difficulty in a more manageable way.

If you are a carer, 18 and over and live, work or are educated in the borough of Croydon, or if the person you care for is 18 or over, lives, works, or is educated in the borough of Croydon then you are eligible to apply for Carers Counselling at Mind in Croydon.

[email protected]

020 8763 2064

Carers’ SupportAre you living in Croydon, 16 years or above and looking after someone with a mental health problem? If so you are a carer. Carers can be relatives, partners, friends or neighbours.

As a carer you may not be aware of what help is available to you. The Carers’ Support Service can provide you with:

• Information on services available.

• Support to access help you need.

• An advocacy service.

• Emotional support.

• Access to events and workshops.

• An opportunity to meet other carers.

• Opportunities to get involved in the planning and development of services for carers.

We hold weekly meetings for mental health carers on Tuesday evenings 6pm - 8pm. Please let us know if you are coming to the meeting in advance. The meetings are free and are held at:

Fairfield House, 10 Altyre Road, East Croydon, CR0 5LA

Please note that the meeting is for the mental health carer only. If you would like more details please get in touch.

mailto:activeminds%40mindincroydon.org.uk?subject=

mailto:counselling%40mindincroydon.org.uk?subject=


44

APPEND IX 1Theme 3

The Conservation Volunteers and Wild in the City

The Croydon Natural Health Service. The Croydon Natural Health Service is a consortium consisting of five organisations TCV, Wild in the City, Good Gym, Wheels for Wellbeing and Good Food Matters. It uses nature to support individual wellbeing and the development of resilient and healthy communities

Contact

Beth Collier

Wild in the City, 126B Portland Road, SE25 4PL

[email protected] http://naturalhealthservice.london

07906 832 952

The Family Centre

The Family Centre Community Café, promotes healthier cooking methods, utilising fruit and vegetables sourced locally. The Community Cafe is operates four afternoons per week targeting specific groups. We serve fresh home cooked health meals at affordable and subsidised prices for the local community.

The Community Cafe and Food Stop Shop have just been awarded a 5 star Food Hygiene rating by the Food Standards Agency.

Day Target Group

Monday Parents/carers of children/family members who special or additional needs

Tuesday The Birchwood over 50s club

Wednesday Low income families, Job seekers and marginalised communities

Thursday Open to all

Tea and Talk sessions (with a crèche) run two mornings per week Wednesdays and Thursday from 9:30am - 12noon and compliments our Food Stop shop.

Contact

Julia Weller

The Family Centre Fieldway New Addington Fieldway, new Addington, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 9AZ

[email protected]

01689 844277

mailto:beth%40wildinthecity.org.uk?subject=

http://naturalhealthservice.london

mailto:familycentre.fieldway%40virgin.net?subject=


45

Croydon Drop-in

Talk-bus outreach health and information service. Croydon youth information and counselling service. The visuals on the TALKBUS are very important and they form part of a campaign series that we have displayed inside the bus, on a wide range of topics such as healthy living, bullying, stress, relationships, staying safe, self-esteem, sexuality and gender identity, plus many more, theses have been developed over the years from feedback from young people.

Contact

Kim Bennett

Croydon Youth Information and Counselling Services Limited (CDI) 132 Church Street, CR0 1RF

[email protected]

020 8680 0404

Crystal Palace FC Foundation

Develop through Sport’ Community Programme (DTSC Programme). Our program helps young people be less confrontational and more understanding of other cultural differences through regular participation in sport or other physical activities. Promoting positive interaction with others to create a sense of connection through corporation and teamwork. This will hopefully support young people to identify and be more likely to stay away from gangs and other negative behaviour.

Contact

Jamie Broughton

Palace for Life Foundation, Selhurst Park, London, SE25 6PU

[email protected]

020 8768 6047

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CE FOR LIFE

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46

METRO Bridge

A holistic service for LGBTQ young people. The Bridge is a free and confidential service for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and questioning (LGBTQ) young people aged 11-25 in Croydon. The Bridge runs two weekly youth groups; one for those aged 11-16 and one for those aged 17-25. These groups provide a safe and social space to meet other LGBTQ young people, get support and enjoy activities, trips and workshops.

This service also includes

• One-to-one advice and support sessions for LGBTQ young people aged 11-25.

• Free training sessions for professionals to help them develop their knowledge and confidence to support LGBTQ young people in Croydon.

Contact Sarah Rowlinson

The METRO Centre Limited METRO Greenwich, 141 Greenwich High Road, London, SE10 8JA

[email protected]

020 8305 5000 / 07912 514 453

Oasis Community Hub Ashburton Park

Developing friends of Oasis groups. Support communities to be healthy, safe and full of opportunity, where each individual is supported to reach their full potential in life.

Contact

Siobhan Judd

Oasis Community Hub, Ashburton Park, Shirley Road, Croydon, CR9 7AL

[email protected]

07474 575 732

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Play Place Inov8 CIC

The Our Space and Community Fun Clubs projects aim to:

“Harnesses the energy and social capital of each chosen community and use an Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) approach; volunteers, under-used buildings and partnership working”.

Our SpaceThe project supports a strong community constructed youth offer to target the most deprived neighborhoods in Croydon. The project sites represent a pan Croydon spread and target estates and communities identified as having high levels of deprivation or where a clearly identified community need exists.

A key element of the programme is to support and upskill local people who want to play a more active role in their community. The AQA Accreditation in Volunteering commenced in February 2016. The project has recruited 52 volunteers; we currently support 20 volunteers on a regular basis. Our second cohort of volunteers has had an induction day and training sessions will commence in January 2018 (previously planned for Sept 2017 – 12 new volunteers are recruited to date for this Croydon 2 Cohort).

Contact

[email protected] www.playplaceinnov8.org

www.facebook.com/play-place-532087400261547

Family Fun Clubs

The Play Place Family Community Fun (FCF) Programme brings together residents, volunteers, community groups and activity providers to offer family and resident community engagement activities across 10 neighbourhoods in Croydon. A range of positive activities have been developed for all ages, these are listed below:

• Work with communities to help plant local events, festivals and activities – increasing community ownership, neighbourhood relationships, pride, aspirations and making the locality feel a better place to live.

• Stimulate better use of open spaces on community estates – safe place to play and activities for whole families to play and learn together.

• Promote well-being and physical health through outdoor sports, play and physical activities.

• Promote creativity and community arts in each estate.

• Tackle gaps in equality by supporting deprived children and families and reducing isolation for marginalised communities.

We are working with a range of partners, community volunteers and young leaders. FCF helps to plant new events and support existing evens and activities at each site.

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mailto:info%40playplace.org?subject=

http://www.playplaceinnov8.org

http://www.facebook.com/play-place-532087400261547


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Reaching Higher – Summer Blitz

Promoting positive activities for young people, estate based community based activities. It is a jam-packed 4-week programme aimed at young people aged 12-16, with volunteering opportunities for young people aged 17+. The programme aims to keep young people engaged in positive activities during the summer holidays. You can expect: performing arts workshops, sports and activities such as cooking and day trips to some of London’s most popular destinations!

Contact

Bukola Garry

Reaching Higher South Norwood Methodist Church, Suffolk Road, SE25 6EG


020 8945 5560

Reaching Higher – Full Circle Life Skills Programme

Mentoring programme for vulnerable young people. Full circle is a mentoring programme aimed to support care leavers transitioning into independent living. We focus on building key life skills including cooking, food shopping, financial literacy including budgeting and account management as well as key employability skills such as CV writing, work experience and productive job search.

Contact

Bukola Garry

Reaching Higher South Norwood Methodist Church, Suffolk Road, SE25 6EG


020 8945 5560

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Shpresa Programme

Shpresa Programme delivers the Aiming Higher programme – which helps unaccompanied Albanian young people reach their potential.

Thursday – “Aiming High” project

Come and dine with me/English classes women and young people/volunteer support

Patrolling at Croydon town

194 Selhurst Road, London SE25 6XX, Norwood Junction

3pm - 8pm

Friday – “Aiming High”

Youth activities/football/dancing/badminton/networking

Old Town Youth Club. Duppas Hill Terrace, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 4BA

6:30pm - 8:30pm

Thursday – Working together to develop resilience

121 support/mentoring and youth support group

Motto: Your career starts here!

John Ruskin College, Selsdon Park Road, South Croydon CR2 8JJ

9am - 3pm

Contact

[email protected] www.shpresaprogramme.com

shpresaprogramme

020 7511 1586

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http://www.shpresaprogramme.com

https://m.facebook.com/shpresa.programme/


50

Sir Philip Game Youth Centre

The service is for young women and men 12-21 years of age who are not currently engaged in health and fitness or youth activities in the East Croydon and Addiscombe area. The health and fitness activities take place several days a week during the school term at the Sir Philip Game Centre. On Fridays these activities overlap with the evening youth club, thereby encouraging the young people to take part in other youth activities as well.

The service provides a range of safe, age-appropriate physical activities such as stretching and dance exercises, circuit training, gym activities and basketball and five a side football. There is a health bar providing fitness smoothies and drinks for the young people.

Training is provided for young volunteers to help them achieve fitness and exercise qualifications and become assistant fitness instructors at the Centre. The health bar coordinator trains young people to make health and

fitness smoothies and drinks There are plans for health and fitness open days and joint events with Surrey Clubs for Young People, including encouraging visitors to try out a range of fitness activities and healthy sports drinks at the centre, thereby increasing regular users of the health and fitness and youth activities in the area. SPG Wellbeing Youth Community – meeting fitness, health and vocational aspirations and Sir Philip Game Centre’s.

Contact

Sally Thorpe

Sir Phillip Game Centre (SPG), 38 Morland Avenue, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 6EA

[email protected]

020 8662 5752

St Francis Monks Hill

The Youth Action for Monks Hill project provides Monks Hill Youth Club, Monks Hill Football Academy and a Mentoring service to young people, working constantly to reduce anti-social behaviour and encourage them to develop personally and socially, reaching their potential. Monks Hill Youth Club welcomes young people aged 11-16, for activities such as cooking and sport. Monks Hill Football Academy for school years 5-9 is open to all for football skills training and matches.

Contact Alice Price

Our activities are run on Monks Hill

[email protected]

07985 936 185

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APPEND IX 1Theme 5

Crisis UK – Skylight Croydon First Steps Away from Homelessness

If you are homeless, have been homeless in the last two years, or are at risk of becoming homeless, we can help you.

To us, homeless means sleeping on the streets or living in a hostel, shelter or refuge. It also means living in supported housing because you have been homeless, sofa surfing, or living with friends/family as you have nowhere else to go. And it can mean living in a B&B, a squat or other temporary accommodation.

What we offer

We offer free practical and creative workshops, individual advice and guidance sessions in our centre in Surrey Street, Croydon as well as local hostels, day centres and libraries.

We can:

• Offer lots of regular courses and fun creative sessions for you to try.

• Give you one to one advice and guidance on education, training and housing.

• Support you to find work, accommodation and a home to rent when you are ready.

• Help find funding for rent in advance or your deposit.

• Find financial grants to pay for a new qualification, work tools or even to start up your own business.

• Help you find a volunteer placement with Crisis or in the community.

• Give you support around your physical and mental health and link you to other services.

Contact

[email protected] www.crisis.org.uk

Croydon Community Mediation

Croydon Community Mediation (CCM) offers a professional and effective mediation service. Mainly dealing with neighbourhood problems, our highly trained and experienced mediators can help people to reach a fair solution. CCM sees conflict as an opportunity to challenge perceptions, question beliefs and change attitudes. The service is free to all residents of Croydon. Contact us to discuss our service or make an appointment.

Contact Pam Flouch, Manager

Our activities are run on Monks Hill

[email protected] www.croydonmediation.org.uk

020 8686 6084

mailto:croydon%40crisis.org.uk?subject=

http://www.crisis.org.uk

mailto:office%40croydonmediation.org.uk?subject=

http://www.croydonmediation.org.uk

@yourcroydon/ilovecroydon

1800

14

https://twitter.com/yourcroydon

https://www.facebook.com/ilovecroydon/

https://www.croydon.gov.uk/

Documents

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