Community Stories

A 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.

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, from friendship groups to food hubs, community events, debt advice, training, activities for young people and families.

Over the past year, we have supported 79 groups with 119 funding applications, securing a total of £677,061 for Coventry organisations. The majority of these groups are run by volunteers, showcasing the dedication and expertise of the people living and volunteering in Coventry. Their commitment to helping others is truly inspiring.

As we move into the next financial year, we will continue to support you in every way we can, prioritising projects that target neighbourhoods and groups that need support the most.

We are excited to announce that we will be again offering training through our funding workshops, with dates to be shared soon.

Thank you for your continued efforts and dedication to making Coventry a better place for all. Together, we can achieve great things!

Dominion Grace Breakfast Club: Building Community Resilience in Willenhall

Every Saturday from 10am to 1pm, the Dominion Grace Breakfast Club at the Hagard Community Centre in Willenhall is making a significant impact on the local community. Run by dedicated volunteers, including some with learning difficulties, this initiative provides a welcoming space for residents to enjoy a free breakfast and socialise. The club's unique waitress service allows volunteers to connect with attendees and foster a sense of community.

Each week, up to 120 residents, ranging from 1 to 90 years old, gather at the breakfast club. For many, this is their only opportunity to socialise, especially given the current cost of living challenges. The club not only addresses food insecurity but also combats social isolation, making it a vital resource for the community.

The Community Resilience Team (CRT) has played a crucial role in supporting Dominion Grace by securing much-needed funding. Thanks to a generous grant of £18,970 from the National Lottery, the project will continue for the next two years. This funding will cover room hire, food, plates, and cutlery, ensuring the breakfast club can keep serving the community.

Additionally, CRT helped Dominion Grace obtain a £2,000 Public Health Grant. This grant will be used to establish a Smokefree table at the breakfast club, where trained volunteers will offer advice and resources to help residents quit smoking, promoting healthier lifestyles within the community.

Volunteer Voices: "Being part of this project has helped me build my confidence and make new friends," said one volunteer.

Dominion Grace commented, "We cannot thank the Community Resilience Team enough for their help with this project. Their support has been invaluable in ensuring we can continue to serve our community."

Dominion Grace is also working to enhance digital inclusion. They have recently applied to #Covconnects for laptops, which will help residents access online resources and complete necessary forms.

This initiative offers comprehensive support, combining friendship, food, advice, and digital access. The Dominion Grace Breakfast Club is a shining example of community resilience in action, bringing people together and providing essential support to those in need.

Coventry Empowered African Women – Celebrating International Women's Day

This month, Community Resilience has been actively supporting the Coventry Empowered African Women's Group by assisting them in applying for external funding for room hire, cultural events, and activities.

To celebrate International Women's Day, the group held an event on 8th March at The Windmill Hotel. This year’s event was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful reminder that when women rise, society rises with them.

Display stations were set up around the venue, showcasing the work of inspiring women and setting the stage for an empowering night ahead. Ninety-five women attended the event, including the Mayoress, who marked the occasion with official recognition and support. The Mayor led a toast, symbolising unity and commitment to the cause, before delivering a heartfelt welcome speech.

Throughout the evening, guests were inspired by a series of speeches, poems, songs, and other performances. Dr. Abi from Warwick University introduced the Clarity+ Project, a ground breaking initiative focused on empowering women through research, education, and policy development.

This event was more than just a celebration; it was a movement. It reinforced that empowerment is not just about providing opportunities but about breaking down barriers, amplifying women's voices, and supporting one another in every way possible. Together, we can achieve great things.