We believe it’s important to spend time with the community organisations we support to see the incredible work happening on our doorstep. Through our four community support programmes: Community Cares Fund, Local Giving, Small Donations and In-Branch Hosting we support charities and community organisations across East Anglia.
In our Community Support Lead Angela's blog series 'Community Connections' she shares her learnings from these visits, shining a spotlight on some of the amazing organisations making a difference in our region.
Community Connections by Angela Carpenter, Community Support Lead
Our community programmes are designed to support local initiatives that strengthen community cohesion and integration across our region. What consistently strikes me whilst I’m out visiting the charities we support is how these organisations rely on the dedication and passion of volunteers who give their time to make a difference to the lives of others. The three visits I’m sharing today showcase this spirit of community cohesion in action.
West Mersea RNLI, Essex
Who are they?
One of the RNLI’s first inshore lifeboat stations, West Mersea RNLI has been in operation since 1963. Its inshore lifeboat, Just George, is a B class Atlantic 85, which arrived on station in 2014.
Supported by…
Our Local Giving programme
Did you know?
The RNLI receives no government funding and relies entirely on public donations, legacies, and the tireless efforts of its volunteers.
What I learned
From the moment I arrived, it was clear that this team operates with unwavering dedication, skill, and a deep commitment to saving lives at sea, often in the most challenging and dangerous of conditions.
When I visited this summer, West Mersea had already responded to 42 'shouts', RNLI terminology for emergency call-outs.
Beyond the operations and equipment, what struck me most was the camaraderie and professionalism of the team. These are highly trained volunteers who drop everything, day or night, when the pager goes off.
The RNLI's work is vital, and the crew at West Mersea are a shining example of community spirit and life-saving excellence.
Find out more
West Mersea Lifeboat Station - RNLI Lifeboat Stations
Love Dereham Community Fridge, Norfolk
Who are they?
A Community Fridge which opened its doors a couple of years ago as a joint effort between Love Dereham and Breckland District Council. It collects food that would otherwise go to waste and makes it freely available for anyone who needs it. The fridge is stocked daily with surplus food donated by local supermarkets, bakeries, and businesses.
Supported by…
Our Community Cares Fund
Did you know?
The Community Fridge started as a way to tackle food waste, but it’s now become a lifeline for individuals and families across Dereham.
What I learned
I visited the Love Dereham Community Fridge with my colleague Oli Drury, our Community and Corporate Engagement Officer, and two of our Directors: Maria Veronese and Martin Catchpole. As we discovered more about this initiative which is set up in the back of a local bookshop, we all agreed that the beauty of this community fridge is its openness. This is a simple, grassroots project that’s making a real difference.
We met with Love Dereham’s Coordinator, Athena who explained that people who visit the community fridge are at risk of loneliness or social isolation. The fridge is a welcoming space where people can share experiences and knowledge and be sign posted to support from other charities and services
We heard all about how the charity relies on volunteers who help collect, sort, and check the food. It's a small army of kindness quietly keeping this project running.
The fridge might be small, but the ripple effects are big. A stronger, more connected community. And the reminder that sometimes, change starts with something as simple as a fridge in the back of a bookshop.
Find out more
Wickam Market Men's Shed, Suffolk
Who are they?
A local Men’s Shed. Men’s Sheds are community spaces for people to connect, converse and create. The activities are often similar to those of garden sheds, but for groups of men to enjoy together.
Supported by…
Our Community Cares Fund
Did you know?
The Shed’s purpose goes far beyond woodwork. It is a place to reduce social isolation, support mental well-being, and build a stronger sense of community.
What I learned
I recently visited the Wickham Market Men’s Shed with Clare from the Suffolk Community Foundation, which administers our Community Cares Fund for us.
What began in a small shed—where core members refurbished community benches during the early days—grew into a vibrant hub for connection and creativity.
After three years of perseverance, the group finally secured a new home: repurposed portacabins formerly used by the local Archive Centre.
Their grant of £3,785 from our Community Cares Fund, helped them to begin transforming the space into a safe, functional, and welcoming environment.
The funding was used to:
- Upgrade electrics for safe tool use
- Install safer flooring in the workshop
- Provide First Aid training for three members
It was great to see some of their impressive workmanship first-hand — a clear reflection of the skills, care, and dedication of the group.
Find out more
Wickham Market Shed – Wickham Market Shed Project
