Our Communications and Marketing Officer, Michael Wolverson, shares how groups are kick-starting their journey towards transforming assets into community ownership with support from the Combined Authority.
It has been over six months since I wrote my blog about Cambridgeshire groups bidding to save their pubs. During my recent visit to Cambridgeshire, I saw first-hand how these groups are utilising the support of our programme partnership with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, to set up their community businesses, aiming to benefit their wider community.
The aim of the project is to support groups in saving their community assets in the area that are vacant or at risk of closure by taking ownership and operation of them, revitalising these whilst protecting and providing key local amenities that will benefit the community.
I was delighted to finally visit The Ickleton Lion, which has now been taken over by the community. In my previous blog, I mentioned how they recieved support from our Combined Authority programme and were working to secure the necessary funds. I had the pleasure of speaking with Rachel (Chair) and Lizzie from the committee, who spoke highly of the support they recieved and shared their ambitions for the pub.
Watch the video below to hear from Rachel and Lizzie
Little Thetford Village Hall – ‘The Little T Shop’
During my visit to Little Thetford, I spoke with Richard, the Chair of the Committee, and Susan, the Treasurer. They shared inspiring examples of how their committee is engaging and collaborating with the community.
What stood out to me was their simplified questionnaire for the local school children. The children not only asked for sweets but also suggested practical ideas. There was also a lovely story about a schoolgirl who came up with the idea for ‘The Little T Shop’ logo. This same girl has already expressed her eagerness to volunteer once the shops opens.
Richard also mentioned their ambition to approach a local organisation that supports individuals with learning difficulties, ensuring the shop is a place where everyone feels welcome and can contribute.
Richard spoke highly of the support from Plunkett advisers, Allan Collard and Andrew Purdy.
He mentioned, “They have been there to hold our hand. Their guidance has been crucial for technical questions, helping us move as quickly as possible.”
As Plunkett members, Richard emphasised the reassurance of always having reliable resources to rely on. He explained how forming their Community Benefit Society (CBS) was made possible with Plunkett’s assistance, offering solutions and guidance throughout the process.
“Plunkett’s model rules were particulary helpful in navigating issues with the village hall lease, securing a substantial agreement that has been a real help to us,” he added.
Little Thetford Village Hall, Cambridgeshire
Proposed look for the shop, designed by local artist
Wilburton Community Hub
I also visited Wilburton, where I met with John, Chair of the Committee, and Dean, the landlord of The Wilburton Flame (formerly The Kings Head, which had been closed for five years). Although they don’t yet have a building, they have an exciting project in the works. Dean, despite owning the pub privately, emphasised his commitment to the community and his desire to support and collaborate with the committee to establish a shop next to the pub.
With over 30 years of retail experience, Dean is eager to contribute to the community shop project, saying, “I just want the community to be happy.”
John highlighted the benefits of the small grant they received and the conditional offer for a larger grant they are expecting, which he believes will set them on the right path. The funding has helped cover planning permission, Financial Conduct Authority registration, and their Plunkett membership. John praised the membership’s value in starting their business idea and spoke highly of Chris Buckham, (Plunkett adviser) who assisted them.
He said, “It is reassuring to know there is always a helpline available at Plunkett. The support we get for only £240 is incredible.”
Watch the video below to see John and Dean talk about the project.
Are you a community group that could qualify for the support from this partnership?
There is not long left until this partnership programme closes, so even if you just have an idea, don’t hestitate to get in touch. We’re here to help!
Development grants of up to £7,500 and capital grants of up to £45,000 are available through Plunkett until the end of March 2025.
Call the Community Business Team on 01993 630022 or click the button below to email us and fund out more about the help available.
