Chalcots: The Story So Far
We’ve been working with Chalcots residents since 2018. Here’s what we’ve done so far.
We hired Community Organisers
At the end of 2018, we hired residents on the Chalcots estate to become community organisers. Their job? To organise events, discussions and initiatives for residents, to create a better sense of community on the Chalcots.
We launched the Chalcots Bank
The Chalcots Bank was where Chalcots Residents were recruited as the Chalcots Bank Board and other residents were challenged to develop a community idea that would connect their community with £100. There were 9 ideas funded in total. This included a Mini Community Library outside Bray, a bingo night, a nail art workshop, a group cinema trip, and a homework club.
We built community knowledge
Alongside all these activities, the community organisers were having in-depth interviews with residents. Here, residents spoke about the things that mattered most to them about living on the Chalcots, including: mental health, community areas, housing, and community fragmentation. You can read the research from those conversations here. All in all, we spoke to over 250 residents.
As a result of those interviews, the Chalcots Community Manifesto was designed. It is a document made by residents, outlining 9 goals to make the Chalcots a happier, safer and more connected community.
We held the Chalcots ‘Hack’
In February 2020, we held the Chalcots Community ‘Hack’. Its purpose? To generate 10 creative ideas for community-led change on the estate, tackling the goals of the manifesto. Residents worked with local professionals to create these ideas, which were then voted on.
Supporting residents through the pandemic
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic The Winch Community Hub was set up to provide emergency support for those struggling with the lockdown. Chalcots community organisers formed part of the 50 volunteers who delivered food and other essentials to those in need. During this time we supported 330 local households including 54 Chalcots households.
We organise community events and activities
The Community Organisers have continued to run community events and ongoing activities for Chalcots residents. This includes: the Chalcots 5-a-side football tournament, Chalcots Summer Fun Day, Chalcots International Lunch, a swap shop.
From June 2022 we have created a community garden in Dorney, run the Chalcots Big Bake and set up a photography group. Tea, Cake and Chat our weekly meet-up for residents of all ages continues to run.