Community Stories

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Celebration of your stories

Welcome to community stories, a place to share news and celebrate what is happening in your community. If you have any stories you would like to feature on our page or in next months newsletter please get in touch at communityresilience@coventry.gov.uk or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.

Settlement Support CIC: Empowering Communities with Coventry City Council’s Resilience Team

We’re thrilled to announce that Settlement Support CIC has received funding from the National Lottery’s Awards for All programme — made possible through the vital support of Coventry City Council’s Resilience Team.

This funding has enabled us to expand our impact across several key areas:

ESOL & Digital Inclusion

We’ve enhanced our ESOL and digital literacy programmes, helping over 30 individuals — including older adults and newly arrived migrants — gain language skills and confidence using digital tools. This dual approach has improved access to jobs, education, and health services while reducing isolation.

Sports for Social Integration

Our summer sports programme has grown into a vibrant community tradition, now welcoming over 1,000 participants. These events foster cultural exchange, build friendships, and connect people with local support services.

Youth Empowerment & Community Awards

We’ve expanded youth initiatives, including the annual Black and Minority Youth Expo during Black History Month. This inspiring event celebrates success stories and encourages leadership. Our new Community Awards Programme honours changemakers and allies who champion inclusion and resilience.

Tailored Support & Volunteer Development

With increased capacity, we now offer bespoke guidance to families navigating complex systems. We’ve also strengthened volunteer training and governance, ensuring sustainable, professional service delivery.

“This funding has been a game-changer. It’s about people, trust, and lasting impact. Huge thanks to Shaun Donnelly and the Resilience Team for believing in our mission.”

— Byron Taylor, Founder, Settlement Support CIC

We remain committed to building a more inclusive Coventry — where everyone has access to opportunity, support, and community.

https://www.settlementsupport.org.uk/




New Community Partnership Launches to Support Health, Wellbeing and Opportunities in Coventry

A new partnership between the John White Community Centre and Creative Kindness has been launched to improve health, wellbeing and social opportunities for local people.

Backed by £151,000 of funding over three years from The National Lottery Community Fund, the project has been developed with the support of Coventry City Council, who brought the partners together and assisted with bid writing.

The initiative aims to empower people living in local communities to take charge of their own health and wellbeing, while also offering volunteering opportunities that build confidence, skills, and a stronger sense of belonging.

As part of the project:

  • The John White Community Centre will provide training and practical support to Creative Kindness leaders, enabling them to expand their work and meet growing community needs.
  • The centre will also integrate around 15 local groups and services, ensuring residents have seamless access to advice, activities, and support.
  • A social prescriber from Sowe Valley PCN will now be based at the John White Community Centre two days a week, working closely with a newly appointed project coordinator from September to connect people with the right opportunities and services.

Gill Blythe, from the John White Community Centre and daughter of John White, after whom the centre is named, said "We are so proud to be part of this partnership and to see the John White Centre at the heart of such important work. My father was passionate about supporting local people and creating opportunities within the community, and this project truly reflects that vision. By working together, we can help people feel more connected, supported, and confident in managing their health and wellbeing."

Dr Allison Duggal, Director of Public Health and Well-being for Coventry City Council said “I am really pleased that my officers have been able to support the creation of such an exciting community initiative. This initiative is a perfect example of our shared working on neighbourhood health, and I cannot wait to hear from the people this helps to support their health and wellbeing.”

Cllr Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport said “This is an exciting venture and one I am pleased to support. Good health is so much more than GP appointments and hospital follow ups. It is projects like this which really help to keep people healthy and happy, and I am so glad Public Health officers have worked so hard with partners to establish it”.

The project will begin rolling out in September, with local people, encouraged to get involved in activities, volunteering, and support available at the John White Community Centre.

If you want to find out more pop into the centre or email: johnwhitecommunitycentre@hotmail.co.uk

If you are a voluntary and community organisation based in Coventry supporting people with their Health and well-being and are interested to establish other similar projects please get in touch with healthycommunities@coventry.gov.uk












Celebration of your stories

Welcome to community stories, a place to share news and celebrate what is happening in your community. If you have any stories you would like to feature on our page or in next months newsletter please get in touch at communityresilience@coventry.gov.uk or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.

Settlement Support CIC: Empowering Communities with Coventry City Council’s Resilience Team

We’re thrilled to announce that Settlement Support CIC has received funding from the National Lottery’s Awards for All programme — made possible through the vital support of Coventry City Council’s Resilience Team.

This funding has enabled us to expand our impact across several key areas:

ESOL & Digital Inclusion

We’ve enhanced our ESOL and digital literacy programmes, helping over 30 individuals — including older adults and newly arrived migrants — gain language skills and confidence using digital tools. This dual approach has improved access to jobs, education, and health services while reducing isolation.

Sports for Social Integration

Our summer sports programme has grown into a vibrant community tradition, now welcoming over 1,000 participants. These events foster cultural exchange, build friendships, and connect people with local support services.

Youth Empowerment & Community Awards

We’ve expanded youth initiatives, including the annual Black and Minority Youth Expo during Black History Month. This inspiring event celebrates success stories and encourages leadership. Our new Community Awards Programme honours changemakers and allies who champion inclusion and resilience.

Tailored Support & Volunteer Development

With increased capacity, we now offer bespoke guidance to families navigating complex systems. We’ve also strengthened volunteer training and governance, ensuring sustainable, professional service delivery.

“This funding has been a game-changer. It’s about people, trust, and lasting impact. Huge thanks to Shaun Donnelly and the Resilience Team for believing in our mission.”

— Byron Taylor, Founder, Settlement Support CIC

We remain committed to building a more inclusive Coventry — where everyone has access to opportunity, support, and community.

https://www.settlementsupport.org.uk/




New Community Partnership Launches to Support Health, Wellbeing and Opportunities in Coventry

A new partnership between the John White Community Centre and Creative Kindness has been launched to improve health, wellbeing and social opportunities for local people.

Backed by £151,000 of funding over three years from The National Lottery Community Fund, the project has been developed with the support of Coventry City Council, who brought the partners together and assisted with bid writing.

The initiative aims to empower people living in local communities to take charge of their own health and wellbeing, while also offering volunteering opportunities that build confidence, skills, and a stronger sense of belonging.

As part of the project:

  • The John White Community Centre will provide training and practical support to Creative Kindness leaders, enabling them to expand their work and meet growing community needs.
  • The centre will also integrate around 15 local groups and services, ensuring residents have seamless access to advice, activities, and support.
  • A social prescriber from Sowe Valley PCN will now be based at the John White Community Centre two days a week, working closely with a newly appointed project coordinator from September to connect people with the right opportunities and services.

Gill Blythe, from the John White Community Centre and daughter of John White, after whom the centre is named, said "We are so proud to be part of this partnership and to see the John White Centre at the heart of such important work. My father was passionate about supporting local people and creating opportunities within the community, and this project truly reflects that vision. By working together, we can help people feel more connected, supported, and confident in managing their health and wellbeing."

Dr Allison Duggal, Director of Public Health and Well-being for Coventry City Council said “I am really pleased that my officers have been able to support the creation of such an exciting community initiative. This initiative is a perfect example of our shared working on neighbourhood health, and I cannot wait to hear from the people this helps to support their health and wellbeing.”

Cllr Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport said “This is an exciting venture and one I am pleased to support. Good health is so much more than GP appointments and hospital follow ups. It is projects like this which really help to keep people healthy and happy, and I am so glad Public Health officers have worked so hard with partners to establish it”.

The project will begin rolling out in September, with local people, encouraged to get involved in activities, volunteering, and support available at the John White Community Centre.

If you want to find out more pop into the centre or email: johnwhitecommunitycentre@hotmail.co.uk

If you are a voluntary and community organisation based in Coventry supporting people with their Health and well-being and are interested to establish other similar projects please get in touch with healthycommunities@coventry.gov.uk












Previous Stories

Welcome to community stories, a place to share news and celebrate what is happening in your community. If you have any stories you would like to feature on our page or in next months newsletter please get in touch at communityresilience@coventry.gov.uk or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.

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  • Share August 2025 - Community Stories on Facebook Share August 2025 - Community Stories on Twitter Share August 2025 - Community Stories on Linkedin Email August 2025 - Community Stories link

    August 2025 - Community Stories

    14 days ago





    🏅 Community Resilience Team Supports Public Health at Coventry Sports Fest 2025

    In August, Coventry’s city centre was buzzing with energy as Sports Fest 2025 brought together residents for six days of free, inclusive sports and wellbeing activities. Among the many contributors, the Community Resilience Team (CRT) were actively supporting Public Health.

    Public Health were engaging residents in conversations around the Five Ways to Wellbeing—Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give. These simple yet powerful principles are helping individuals and families explore practical ways to boost their mental and physical health.

    Families that visited the Public Health... Continue reading

  • Share July 2025 Newsletter on Facebook Share July 2025 Newsletter on Twitter Share July 2025 Newsletter on Linkedin Email July 2025 Newsletter link

    July 2025 Newsletter

    about 2 months ago


    Community Resilience Team Helps Secure Funding for Coventry Peace House Bicycle Workshop

    The Community Resilience Team (CRT) has successfully supported Coventry Peace House Education Trust in securing vital external funding to sustain their popular Bicycle Workshop initiative.



    The weekly workshop, which focuses on cycle repair and upskilling, plays a crucial role in boosting participants’ self-esteem and employability. It offers hands-on training in bike maintenance while fostering a sense of community and purpose among attendees.

    Recognising the value of the project, CRT worked closely with the organisation to develop a strong funding application. Their efforts paid off when the group was

    ... Continue reading
  • Share From Coburg to Coventry: A Cultural Journey Through Art, Heritage, History, and Innovation on Facebook Share From Coburg to Coventry: A Cultural Journey Through Art, Heritage, History, and Innovation on Twitter Share From Coburg to Coventry: A Cultural Journey Through Art, Heritage, History, and Innovation on Linkedin Email From Coburg to Coventry: A Cultural Journey Through Art, Heritage, History, and Innovation link

    From Coburg to Coventry: A Cultural Journey Through Art, Heritage, History, and Innovation

    by Basma, 3 months ago

    Intercultural Roots and MakingCulture e.V. unite Coventry and Coburg through art, heritage, and sustainability in the Bridging Cultures project, marking a historic moment for creative collaboration between the UK and Germany.

    Coventry-based artist, Intercultural Roots practitioner, and 12-year resident city host Fatima has become the first Coventrian to witness the reconstructed version of one of the world's very first 4-wheeled electric cars, originally developed by inventor Andreas Flocken in 1888 in Coburg, Germany.

    The car was meticulously recreated from a single archival photograph by members of Coburg's Historic Innovation Hub, including Professor Gerhard Kampe, Peter Langendorf, and their team —... Continue reading

  • Share June Newsletter 2025 on Facebook Share June Newsletter 2025 on Twitter Share June Newsletter 2025 on Linkedin Email June Newsletter 2025 link

    June Newsletter 2025

    3 months ago




    City Centre Support for People Struggling with Addiction



    The Community Resilience Team has been working closely with Dynamo project over the past few months to help them access external funding for their much-needed project. This month they heard they were successful and have just been awarded £19,800 from the National Lottery.



    This funding is being used by them to offer an outreach and drop-in support service for individuals in need of day rehabilitation (dayhab) services. It includes a structured detoxification program with medical oversight, addressing the increasing demand locally.



    Dynamo commented "To receive this grant is truly amazing and the... Continue reading

  • Share May Newsletter 2025 on Facebook Share May Newsletter 2025 on Twitter Share May Newsletter 2025 on Linkedin Email May Newsletter 2025 link

    May Newsletter 2025

    4 months ago







    Digital Access & Health Advice supporting residents In Willenhall
    Community Resilience popped along to see how the Dominion Grace breakfast club was doing at the Hagard in Willenhall this month. They had been helped to access two years of external funding, #Covconnect digital devices and apply for a small Public Health Grant.
    They are now offering digital support, with access to laptops and free internet at the club. While also being able to access online support for local people to get help to give up smoking.
    This has been going well with volunteers supporting residents to get online to access
    ... Continue reading
  • Share April Newsletter 2025 on Facebook Share April Newsletter 2025 on Twitter Share April Newsletter 2025 on Linkedin Email April Newsletter 2025 link

    April Newsletter 2025

    5 months ago



    Survivor Sanctuary Launches Therapeutic Yoga Program for Healing and Empowerment




    In a significant step towards supporting victim-survivors of sexual violence, Survivor Sanctuary has announced the launch of a new therapeutic yoga program. This initiative, made possible by grant of nearly £8,000 from Sport England, aims to provide a safe and supportive environment where women can focus on their healing journey and connect with others. The Community Resilience Team played a crucial role in supporting Survivor Sanctuary's application for this grant, ensuring this much needed program could go ahead.




    About the Program




    The yoga sessions at Survivor Sanctuary are specifically designed
    ... Continue reading
  • Share March Newsletter 2025 on Facebook Share March Newsletter 2025 on Twitter Share March Newsletter 2025 on Linkedin Email March Newsletter 2025 link

    March Newsletter 2025

    6 months ago


    Community Resilience Team: A Year of Impact and Dedication
    The Community Resilience Team has had an incredibly busy year supporting the voluntary sector in Coventry during 2024-25. As we approach the end of the financial year, we are excited to share some data highlighting our achievements and ongoing commitment to the community.
    Even though we are a small team, our dedication to supporting the voluntary organisations in Coventry has remained unwavering. Our work includes assisting with funding, forming partnerships, engaging with stakeholder groups, and connecting you with other council departments. We recognise the immense value and incredible work you do,
    ... Continue reading
  • Share Bridging Cultures: Digital Storytelling & Creative Connections for Community Empowerment (Coventry, UK & Coburg, Germany) on Facebook Share Bridging Cultures: Digital Storytelling & Creative Connections for Community Empowerment (Coventry, UK & Coburg, Germany) on Twitter Share Bridging Cultures: Digital Storytelling & Creative Connections for Community Empowerment (Coventry, UK & Coburg, Germany) on Linkedin Email Bridging Cultures: Digital Storytelling & Creative Connections for Community Empowerment (Coventry, UK & Coburg, Germany) link

    Bridging Cultures: Digital Storytelling & Creative Connections for Community Empowerment (Coventry, UK & Coburg, Germany)

    by Basma, 7 months ago

    Intercultural Roots (IR) and MakingCulture® e.V. announce their participation in the Cultural Bridge 2025-2026 programme, a UK-German initiative driving cross-border collaboration through arts, technology, and community engagement. Titled "Bridging Cultures: Digital Storytelling and Creative Connections for Community Empowerment", the partnership will connect Coventry (UK) and Coburg (Germany) in a year-long exchange of hybrid workshops, participatory arts, and digital storytelling, running from April 2025 to March 2026.

    Core Activities & Innovation

    The project merges IR's PLACES by EcoGPX® app - a geo-tagged storytelling platform - with MakingCulture's experimental arts expertise to reimagine public spaces. Key activities include:

  • Share February Newsletter 2025 on Facebook Share February Newsletter 2025 on Twitter Share February Newsletter 2025 on Linkedin Email February Newsletter 2025 link

    February Newsletter 2025

    7 months ago

    Coventry Spires U3A Secures National Lottery Funding

    The Coventry Spires University of the 3rd Age (U3A), a group dedicated to supporting individuals past retirement age, has successfully secured £8,500 in funding from the National Lottery Awards for All small grants fund. This significant achievement will help the group continue offering a wide range of activities, including rambling, table tennis, book clubs, quizzes, bowling, and friendship groups across various venues in the city.
    The group, formed in 2002, was seeking external funding to cover venue costs and purchase essential equipment such as microphones, projector screens, and a new table tennis table.
    ... Continue reading
  • Share January Newsletter 2025 on Facebook Share January Newsletter 2025 on Twitter Share January Newsletter 2025 on Linkedin Email January Newsletter 2025 link

    January Newsletter 2025

    8 months ago

    Congratulations to Sing for Change community group who have been awarded £1,000 from the General Charities (Coventry). The group contacted the Community Resilience Team for support to keep the group sustainable and help remove financial barriers to participation for those members who need it.

    Sing for Change is an exciting, intergenerational community choir, building strong relationships between diverse people across Coventry. Established six years ago, the group members share the belief that we need to create a kinder, more compassionate, inclusive world - a fundamental principle of Sing for Change. The group is open to all, singing songs with messages... Continue reading

Page last updated: 30 Sep 2025, 12:47 AM