Awarded projects - Citizen Local Fund

☕ Coffee, Books & Craft Club – A Citizen Local Fund Visit to Canley Community Centre

The Coffee, Books & Craft Club is a friendly weekly group at Canley Community Centre. People come together to enjoy warm drinks, chat, and take part in gentle craft activities. It’s a great way to feel less lonely, build confidence, and make new friends.

The group applied for the Citizen Local Fund in Round 1 of 2025 and were awarded funding to help support their brilliant work in the community.

🎨 Crafting, Laughter & Community Spirit

On 14th October, the Engagement Team joined the group for a brilliant afternoon. As bookmarks were being made, the room was full of conversation. People shared stories about their lives and experiences, and there was a real sense of belonging.

One person proudly showed a drawing of a worm, made for his friend who loves reading and is a true “bookworm.” He laughed when no one got the joke straight away — a sweet and funny moment that brought smiles all round!

There were tasty cakes, hot and cold drinks, and a cosy space to relax. You could really feel the community spirit shining through.

🐰 Meet Willow the Rabbit

We also met Willow the Rabbit — a big, fluffy rabbit who’s being trained to help people feel calm when they’re feeling anxious. This was Willow’s first visit, and he was a big hit with everyone. It’s another brilliant way the community is helping people feel supported.

📚 Books & Bookmark Fun

Everyone enjoyed choosing a book to take home — there were loads to pick from! People chatted about their favourite stories and how reading helps you relax and escape for a while.

There was a lovely conversation about encouraging younger people to read more.The bookmark craft was a hit too, lots of creativity and smiles all round!

Citizen is proud to support this amazing group with the Citizen Local Fund 💛

🥘 Snack and Chat – A Warm Meal, A Friendly Chat, A Stronger Community

Worcester Community Trust’s Snack and Chat project is a shining example of how a simple idea, sharing a hot meal and good conversation that can transform lives. Funded by the Citizen Local Fund, this initiative supports older adults in deprived areas by offering nutritious meals, social activities, and access to vital services.

The Citizen Engagement Team were honoured to attend this event, meet the wonderful participants, and enjoy the amazing food. After speaking with everyone, it was clear this project is all about community bringing people together, making friends, and sharing delicious meals.

💡 About the Project

Main issue addressed:
The project was created to give older people a regular place to go, enjoy a hot meal, socialise, and be signposted to other services they may need.

Goals:
To promote mental wellbeing, reduce isolation, and help older people feel a renewed sense of belonging in their neighbourhood.

“We wanted older people to take part in activities that promote mental wellbeing and help them feel connected again.”

Unexpected outcomes:

“We didn’t realise how much older people would share their concerns and problems with staff. Building this trust has been an unexpected but overwhelmingly positive part of the project.”

👥 Community Involvement

Local involvement:
Participants — affectionately called Snack and Chatters — help shape the project by sharing what meals, music, and activities they enjoy. Feedback is used to continuously improve the experience.

“Our Snack and Chatters do just that — chat! Their feedback helps us tailor everything to their tastes.”

Who benefits most:
Older residents are the primary beneficiaries, but the project also strengthens service connections across Worcester, benefiting families, friends, staff, and volunteers.

Changes in connection:

“Spending lightly structured leisure time together regularly has built genuine trust and open communication.”

🌱 Impact & Future Plans

Difference made so far:
Snack and Chat has become a reliable fixture in the community, giving clients something to look forward to each week.

Client stories:

“I’m so glad we have this group — it gives me something to look forward to and gets me out of the house.”
“I really enjoyed my lunch, and it made me feel better being around people.”

Future hopes:
To maintain consistency and build sustainable growth, ensuring clients are never let down.

“We want to keep a level of funding that allows us to make commitments to people and communities — and grow from there.”

💷 Funding & Support

How Citizen Local Fund helped:
The fund strengthened a well-loved service and created valuable connections with housing associations like Citizen.

Managing the funding:

“It was promptly paid, which helped us immediately tackle rising food costs.”

Tips for future applicants:

“Have community at the heart of what you’re doing. Focus on the names and faces of the people you serve — their stories matter.”
“Citizen Housing’s nature is in their name — they’re about the citizens. If your application reflects that, you’re on the right track.”

Community Drive: Helping SEND Families Feel Connected

Community Drive was set up to help families with children who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Many parents told us they felt lonely, tired, and left out. They often had to deal with services on their own, and their children didn’t always feel welcome in regular groups or activities.

What did we want to do?

We wanted to:

• Create a safe and friendly space for families to meet and make friends.
• Give parents useful advice and support from professionals.
• Help children take part in fun activities while parents could relax.
• Make families feel stronger, less alone, and more part of their community.

What happened during the project?

A lovely surprise:
Families started helping each other really quickly! Parents shared tips, planned playdates, and supported each other outside of the sessions.

A challenge:
Lots of families joined faster than we expected. This meant we had to quickly find ways to manage the bigger group and make sure everyone felt included.

How did the community get involved?

Local parents helped plan the sessions. They chose topics for coffee mornings like wellbeing, food support, and SEND rights. Citizen residents also helped spread the word using WhatsApp and local forums.

Who benefited most?
SEND families in the area. Parents said they felt more supported, and children enjoyed activities made just for them.

What changed?
Families who used to feel alone are now part of a caring group. Parents share school advice, give each other lifts, and swap ideas. The sessions also helped build stronger links between residents, Citizen staff, and local schools.

What difference has it made?

• Families feel less lonely and more confident.
• Children with SEND enjoy fun, inclusive activities.
• Parents feel better supported and more connected.

One mum said:

“I finally feel like I belong somewhere, and I don’t have to explain my child’s needs – everyone just understands.”

What’s next?

We want Community Drive to continue all year round. We’re looking for more funding so we can run evening and weekend sessions too, making it easier for working families to join.

How the Citizen Local Fund helped

The Citizen Local Fund helped us cover the cost of refreshments, sensory play equipment, craft materials, and outreach resources — without this support, the sessions wouldn’t have been possible. For anyone applying for funding, we recommend being clear about the local issue you’re tackling, showing how Citizen customers will benefit, keeping your budget simple and realistic, and involving the community in shaping your project.

Blades Down, Bright Futures

Blades Down, Bright Futures was delivered by Mizizi Boys Mentorship CIC at Moat House Leisure & Neighbourhood Centre in Coventry, with support from the Citizen Local Fund.

This 12-week initiative, running from June to September 2025, was designed to support boys aged 11–17 living in Citizen communities across Coventry. The programme aimed to address key challenges such as knife crime, peer pressure, low confidence, and disengagement from school.

Each week, participants took part in structured football sessions to build teamwork and healthy friendships, alongside workshops focused on identity, emotional wellbeing, and conflict resolution. Every boy was paired with a mentor, offering consistent one-to-one support and guidance. Families were also invited to open days and celebration events, helping to strengthen community connections.

This project has been a vital intervention for the local community, offering young people a safe and supportive environment to grow and thrive. By providing consistent role models, practical tools, and positive activities, Blades Down, Bright Futures has helped steer boys away from harmful influences and towards brighter futures. It has also strengthened relationships between families, mentors, and community leaders — creating a lasting network of support that will continue to benefit Citizen neighbourhoods long after the programme ends.

Project Impact

• ⚽ Engagement: Over 35 boys regularly attended, most from Citizen Housing neighbourhoods.
• 💪 Confidence & Skills: Participants reported improved self-esteem, emotional regulation, and decision-making.
• 🏡 Community Safety: Parents noticed more positive behaviour at home and reduced involvement in risky peer groups.
• 🤝 Mentorship: Six local volunteers were trained and supported, building long-term capacity for youth guidance.
• 🧩 Relationships: The project fostered trust between families, mentors, and community leaders, creating a wider support network.

Looking Ahead

Blades Down, Bright Futures has laid the groundwork for lasting change. With Citizen’s support, this successful pilot has not only created safer streets and brighter futures — it’s also sparked the development of long-term mentorship hubs that will continue to benefit Citizen customers and communities.

🎤 Vanny Fest 2025: A Celebration of Community, Culture and Connection

On Sunday 14th September, something brilliant happened at The Coventrians in Coventry. Local group Vanny Radio – Community Broadcasters hosted Vanny Fest 2025, a free festival full of music, food, and fun. The idea was simple: bring people together to enjoy local talent and celebrate community spirit.

From the start, the team wanted to create a space where families, young people, and neighbours could come together, enjoy live performances, and support small businesses. It wasn’t just about entertainment — it was about connection.

“It was more than a festival — it was a celebration of community.”

Even when the weather turned grey, the energy stayed bright. Volunteers, performers, and stallholders didn’t give up — they stayed until the end. The Mayor even came along to show support, which made the day feel even more special.

“The weather was a bit challenging, but the local community did not give up.”

Support from the Citizen Local Fund

Vanny Fest was made possible thanks to the hard work of the Vanny Radio team, help from volunteers, and support from the Citizen Local Fund. The funding helped the team hire the venue, set up sound and lighting, and spread the word across the city. It also meant they could offer free activities for all ages, making sure everyone felt welcome.

“Funding helped us create something special — accessible, inclusive, and full of life.”

The team planned carefully and worked closely with local partners to make sure everything ran smoothly. The support from the fund gave them the confidence to aim high and bring their idea to life.

Why It Mattered

Vanny Fest made a real difference. It helped people meet, connect, and enjoy time together. Local artists got to perform, small businesses had a chance to sell their goods, and families had fun in a safe, friendly space.

“It was a festival for everyone — music, dance, food, and community all in one place.”

Working Together

Local people were involved from start to finish — helping with setup, performing, and volunteering. The event brought neighbours together and helped build new friendships.

“Volunteers, participants and vendors stayed connected until the end of the event.”

What’s Next?

After such a successful day, Vanny Radio are already thinking about future events. The feedback was fantastic, and it’s clear that people want more community-led celebrations.

If you’re thinking about applying for the Citizen Local Fund, Vanny Radio’s advice is:

• Make sure your idea fits the fund’s goals
• Show how your project will help others
• Plan well and involve your community

“With the right support, even a small idea can grow into something amazing.”

🌱 The Allotment Hut Restoration Project: Rebuilding Community Roots

We’re thrilled to share an exciting update from one of our Citizen Local Fund projects The Allotment Hut Restoration is officially underway!

After a devastating storm destroyed the original hut, the community has rallied together to rebuild this vital space. The new hut has now arrived and is being assembled, marking the beginning of a fresh chapter for local residents and Citizen customers.

This restored hut will be more than just a shelter it will be a hub for gardening, food growing, and outreach activities, designed to support education, wellbeing, and community connection. By creating a shared green space, the project aims to strengthen ties between people and the environment, encouraging sustainable living and social inclusion.

🌿 Why it matters:

• Offers a safe and welcoming space for community gardening
• Supports mental and physical wellbeing through outdoor activities
• Provides opportunities for learning and skill-sharing
• Builds stronger connections among residents

It’s an exciting time as the project comes to life — and we can’t wait to see the positive impact it will have on the community.

Stay tuned for more updates as the hut takes shape and the garden begins to grow!

A Heartfelt Celebration at NICE: Community, Connection, and Kindness

We’re delighted to share a special moment from our partnership with NICE, who recently hosted their first fully funded end-of-year BBQ event for adults—made possible with support from the Citizen Local Fund.

This event marked a meaningful milestone for NICE. For the first time, they were able to bring together adult beneficiaries, their carers, and staff for an afternoon of celebration, connection, and joy. The weather was kind, the food was plentiful, and the turnout was fantastic.

Guests enjoyed light-hearted games, shared stories, and celebrated the achievements of families over the past year. For many of the adults who attended—some of whom face daily challenges—this was a rare opportunity to relax, meet friends, and simply enjoy being part of a community.

As the NICE team shared with us:

“Your support meant our adults, who are often facing challenges at home and in daily life, had a lovely afternoon, meeting friends and having a good time.”

The impact of the day was clear in the laughter, smiles, and sense of belonging that filled the space. We’re proud to have played a part in making this special event possible.

Thank you to everyone involved for helping create such a memorable experience.

Building Community Through Food and Connection

The Wood End and Bell Green Breakfast & Lunch Club is a heartwarming summer initiative in Coventry, designed to support vulnerable residents through free meals, tea gatherings, and wellbeing activities. The project aims to reduce social isolation, improve health outcomes, and foster stronger community connections—especially for those who may feel overlooked or alone.

Now in its third event, the project continues to grow in impact and reach. Each gathering has brought together diverse groups of local residents, offering not just nourishment, but also a safe space for conversation, encouragement, and shared experiences.

Event Highlight: Group Gathering 23 July 2025

The most recent event focused on a community of men originally from the two Congos (Brazzaville and Kinshasa). Many of these men face significant challenges—living alone, often abandoned by their partners, and struggling with cooking, employment, or even stable housing.

During this event, the group was welcomed with a warm, home-cooked meal—prepared at their request—and a space to talk openly about their lives. The atmosphere was one of mutual respect and care. Conversations touched on emotional wellbeing, loneliness, and the importance of community support.

One of the most touching moments came when two attendees asked:

“Diane, is this the last event? What are you planning for the future? Why not make the project bigger—like opening a community hub or a food bank for single men like us?”

This heartfelt feedback reflects the deep need for continued support and the potential for the project to evolve into something even more impactful.

🛍️ A Heartfelt Visit to the Salvation Army – 25th July

As part of her Citizen Local Fund–supported project, Diane visited the Salvation Army Coventry Homeless Centre on Friday 25th July after a shop at Lidl. She delivered a range of essential items including toiletries, milk, sugar, coffee, tea, bin bags, and cleaning products.

Diane shared how warmly she was welcomed by staff and residents—70 men and 10 women—who expressed their gratitude for the donations. She also met Polly, a staff member, who spoke about how even small gestures like these can make a real difference to someone in need.

“It was truly a heart-warming experience,” Diane said. “Just small things that I hope can make someone’s day a little easier. I’m so grateful to be actively involved in my local community and to support those who need it most.”

The donation also included period pants, which will directly support seven women at the centre. Diane’s visit is a powerful reminder of how community-led projects, supported by the Citizen Local Fund, can bring comfort, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

What’s Next?

With three successful events completed, the Breakfast & Lunch Club has already made a meaningful difference. The feedbackand others highlights a growing desire for long-term solutions—such as a permanent community space or food bank—to continue supporting those in need.

This project is more than just meals; it’s about dignity, connection, and hope. As we look to the future, the vision is clear: to expand the initiative and ensure that no one in our community feels forgotten.

July 12th Event

July 19th Events

July 23rd Event

Preparing for July 25th Event