With the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster City Council we recently hosted a ‘Try Something New in Your Neighbourhood’ event. It was a day that showcased all the amazing support and activities offered by community micro-enterprises in the boroughs – and was packed with energy, creativity and connection.
The day brought together local enterprise leaders, social workers, and people from across the boroughs – including older people, those living with dementia, autistic people, and people with learning disabilities.
It was an opportunity for:
“Working with Community Catalysts has been straightforward, positive, and fun – it’s a partnership that fits neatly with our aim to co-produce services with local people and take a person-centred approach to social care.”
From ballroom and flamenco dancing to music therapy, yoga, drama, and creative arts, the event demonstrated how small, community enterprises can make a big impact on people’s health, wellbeing, and independence.
Commissioners and social care leaders were able to see first-hand how these enterprises offer flexible, personalised options that are preventative and reduce reliance on traditional services. The model also showed the potential to increase uptake in Direct Payments.
“We’re really pleased to be working with Community Catalysts to help create and support micro-enterprises that are of interest to people who draw on social care in our boroughs. In the short space of time since we got going, people are bursting with brilliant, creative ideas that we can all help to get going.”
Events like this don’t just create a buzz – they change mindsets. Professionals can think creatively about care and support and give people opportunities to choose more local responsive support that improves their health and wellbeing, helping them to connect to the places where they live.
Contact us to discuss how to: