New partnership with ‘Community Catalysts’ will help local people turn community ideas into reality

Community micro-enterprises are small, locally based organisations, or individuals that provide help, support, activities and opportunities for residents. They can take many forms, including arts and crafts groups, exercise classes, social clubs, wellbeing activities and personalised support services.

Through the partnership, Community Catalysts will work directly with people who have an idea they would like to develop.

The programme has already been successfully delivered in many local authority areas across the UK, helping people turn their skills, experience and passions into ventures that benefit local communities while creating employment and keeping money within the local economy.

This new partnership aligns closely with the Council's vision of Strong Communities with a Bright Future and supports several of the wellbeing objectives within the Corporate Plan 2025-2030.

By encouraging local people to create services, activities and opportunities that respond directly to community needs, the programme contributes to our objective of Supporting and protecting those who need us, helping residents access personalised support, build connections and reduce social isolation.

The initiative also supports our ambition of Creating great places to live, work and visit by encouraging activities that promote wellbeing through leisure, arts, culture and community participation.

Importantly, the partnership reflects our commitment to Working together for a brighter future, bringing together the Council, Community Catalysts, community groups, social enterprises and residents to create solutions that make a positive difference locally.

Many colleagues work closely with residents, community groups and local organisations who may have ideas, skills or ambitions that could develop into a community micro-enterprise.

If you know someone who is passionate about supporting others, running activities, sharing their skills or addressing a need in their community, please help spread the word about this opportunity.

We'll be following the journey of local micro-enterprises as they develop and sharing stories about the impact they're making across the Vale.

You can find out more about the scheme on the Community Catalyst website.