WELLS Community Network (WCN) has been given a funding boost of more than £240,000 to expand and strengthen its work in Wells and the surrounding villages.
The National Lottery Community Fund has awarded the organisation a grant of £243,757 over three years which will allow it to build on the work it began during the Covid-19 lockdown and ensure that people in the local area continue to have access to practical, low-level support when they need it most.
“We are profoundly grateful to The National Lottery and its players for supporting our project and believing in the work we do,” said Emma Lefevre, trustee of WCN. “This funding is not just an investment in our organisation, but in the people of Wells.”
Since the pandemic, WCN – which has recently become a registered charity – has run a six-day-a-week phone line helping with shopping, transport requests, pharmacy deliveries, signposting, has provided vaccination marshalling, food bank deliveries, and more. It has also launched new initiatives, including:
• A Welcome Hub for displaced individuals and families.
• A trishaw service to help people enjoy time outside.
This kind of everyday support is essential for people who are isolated, ill, or experiencing mobility challenges, or simply just want to feel connected to their community. It helps people stay independent and in their own homes for longer.
The new funding will enable WCN to employ a part-time manager and an administrative assistant, relieving the pressure on a small number of volunteers who have been working the equivalent of full-time roles. This added capacity will ensure the project continues to thrive and work collaboratively with other local organisations.
WCN is also developing a local microprovider network and exploring better ways to reach unpaid carers and isolated individuals with the right support at the right time. It will also look to expand its transport service.
“This funding recognises that while volunteers are the lifeblood of what we do, they also need support themselves,” said Emma. “It allows us to continue growing, connecting, and supporting the people of Wells together.”
Announcing news of the grant at a celebration event at Wells Town Hall on August 12, Philip Welch said that the funding is a profound vote of confidence in WCN. He said that potential new projects include a hub for carers, and adding to the supply of community transport.
He added: “This grant has been secured by Wells volunteers for the people of Wells and we are delighted that the National Lottery has shown so much faith in our city and our wonderful volunteers.”