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Voices of Big Local

Meet the people working on Big Local

Changemakers: Reducing isolation and inspiring connection in West Yorkshire

After joining Keighley Big Local in 2016, chair Fiona Thompson shares the area’s journey so far and her experience of creating Café Eden – a safe space supporting parents and carers of autistic children.

‘A quick chat and a cup of tea changed everything’

When life got tough for Vicky Williamson, a chance encounter with a volunteer from Northwood Together Big Local transformed her life. Vicky shares how getting involved with the programme built her confidence and helped her get back into the workplace.

‘People start walking around with their heads held high again.’

Working in a community facing severe food poverty, Northwood Together Big Local has built innovative partnerships with organisations to support local people. Here, Lisa Cover, the area’s Community Development Manager, shares how they’ve made it happen.  

‘On her birthday my daughter gets a book’

In 2018, a programme of cuts led to the closure of Ore Library in Sussex. But with funding from Big Local North East Hastings, volunteers were able to reopen the space – bringing joy and connection to local residents of all generations.

‘There was nothing locally for SEN children’

A small grant from Big Local North East Hastings enabled parents Lisa and Jamie Henderson to set up their own charity. Five years on, it’s provided vital respite and support services for nearly 200 families with children with special educational needs (SEN).

Changemakers: Creating a legacy of community development

Chair of Par Bay Big Local, Sonia Clyne, looks back on their achievements, with projects including developing a community centre, a garden and a skatepark, and shares how her work is continuing beyond Big Local.

‘It’s about young people’s voices’

At Newington Big Local’s popular Chill Club young people gain cooking skills, explore their creativity and connect with their community.

‘Newington is the complete opposite of what it used to be’

With a buzzing community centre at the heart of their achievements and leaving a negative reputation behind, Newington Big Local has a lot to be proud of.

Changemakers: Addressing local needs and growing community resilience

Brenda Lines has approached her role as chair of Big Local DY10 with a strategic mindset. Here, she tells us about the measurable impact they have made in the community, and how the biggest success of the partnership has been enabling people to grow.