Community Matters: Creating ripples for change in our community

By Following on from my previous article (6 Feb, “It lifts your spirits to have someone visiting, and this has made a big difference in my life”), where I spoke about how, as community builders, we help reconnect people with their local community—part of our role is not only to support individuals in feeling a sense of belonging again but also to empower them to take the lead in making things happen.

A perfect example of this is the work we're doing alongside Carla and Victoria and their team. A few years ago, they started the ‘Caterpillar and Ladybug Creepy Crawly Festival’ as a fundraiser for The Lullaby Trust and Rowcroft Hospice—both causes close to their hearts following personal loss. The festival was created to keep Isla and Colin’s memory alive while bringing joy to the community.

Now, with the help of an incredibly passionate team and support from various organisations including Torbay Communities, Boots & Laces, Plainmoor Swimming Pool and Mount Olive Church, the festival continues to grow. This year promises a plethora of activities for all ages, including live music and a raffle with amazing prizes like a 1-week stay in a Sharm El Sheikh apartment! This is taking place on Saturday, 7 June, from 12pm to 6pm at Boots & Laces Plainmoor.

Speaking of Boots & Laces, it has recently been refurbished and is becoming a real community hub. They host regular events like quiz nights, “Around the World” themed food evenings and children’s birthday parties. Also, they have a variety of free-to-use board games and jigsaw puzzles, as well as some younger-based activities – perfect for a relaxed coffee with friends! Even better, they are open to new ideas—so if there’s something you’d love to see happening there or anywhere in the community, please let us/them know!

We did let Judd at Boots & Laces know, and in response to local requests, we’ve relaunched Community Skittles, which now runs every second Monday of the month at 11am. It's proving really popular and has been a great way for people to reconnect, find out what’s happening and share a few laughs.

As I’ve said before, "By working together for our community, we can create the ripples for change."

If you’d like to get involved, share an idea for something new that brings people together; please don’t hesitate to get in touch – Usha Garrattley, Community Builder for Ellacombe & Plainmoor Mob: 07702557723 Email:ushagarrattley@torbaycdt.org.uk.