Start a community project
Everything you need to make a difference in your community
If you’re passionate about making a positive impact in your community, why not start your own project? There are wonderful people just like you at the heart of many community initiatives, offering support and spreading kindness every single day.
It may feel daunting to start a project from scratch, but we’re here with you every step of the way. From step-by-step guides, practical advice and a network of other like-minded people, we can inspire and support you to do incredible things.
Outline your vision
If you’re not sure how to channel your passion into real change, we’re here to help. We’ve created a simple framework to help you turn your idea into a reality by setting out your vision and outlining your next steps.
Get your project off the ground
Find funding for your community
Many great projects are accomplished with little or no money. When people…
Seek council support
If you’re running an event in your community it can be a…
Assess health and safety
Some councils may ask you for a risk assessment for your community…
Close a road
If you’re thinking of holding a Big Lunch on your street and…
How to promote your project
Once you’ve got your project up and running, it’s time to spread the word! Browse our resources on how to publicise your project using digital channels and media.
Write an article
Here are some tips on how to write that perfect article to…
Make a film
A great way to share the experience of being part of your…
Use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Social media isn’t just geared towards an individual’s social life. These networks…
Contact local media
Contacting local newspapers, magazines, radio and newsletters is a good way of…
Get your Big Lunch pack
It’s full of handy downloadable resources and exclusive content to help you plan and host your Big Lunch.
We can’t wait to see where your Big Lunch might take you!
How to engage your community
The best community engagers ask people what they want before the project starts and allow people to take an active role in designing and delivering it.
Meet other community organisers
Join our Network of community organisers to meet other like-minded people. You’ll also receive support from our team on the ground.
“I started to believe that what I did was important, it did matter, and it did make a positive difference to our community. I felt really valued and empowered and was filled with enthusiasm to do these things even better”
Gwen Cook
Inspiring people
How ‘the Eden effect’ changed our community forever
Herbalist Maria Billington got the impetus to take on a community space from the council after attending a Community Camp at the Eden Project.…
How we brought isolated people together — with coffee and a caravan!
Ann Osborn is the Director of the Rural Coffee Caravan in Suffolk. The mobile community cafe and information centre helps to alleviate isolation in…
Saving the planet, one Big Lunch at a time!
After organising her first Big Lunch in 2009, Diane from Warton has been bringing her community together for an annual day of community celebration…