Our community micro-enterprise development encourages and supports people to set up more creative activities and groups in their local areas. This supports local people to try new things, build new connections with others and be more connected to their community.
Historically, day services have developed from day centres that offer people care or occupational activity during office hours in group settings.
They have not always evolved to be able to offer what people want and need and they are rarely aspirational. Sometimes a more creative approach is required.
“Community Catalysts has helped us to think outside the box and deliver on our strategy … to build local infrastructure and provide better, greater choices for people with a learning disability.”
Garry Parvin – Strategic Commissioning, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
Community Catalysts has an established approach which releases the capacity and creativity of local people.
An employed Catalyst identifies individuals who are interested in supporting people differently during the day. The Catalyst runs a development programme underpinned by coaching, mentoring and an emphasis on local networks. Alongside our work with local people, we help public sector organisations understand and make the systems and culture change necessary to sustain this more creative approach.
The approach creates daytime support for people, offered by other local people, that values strengths and builds on interests.
It also creates satisfying employment for local citizens. It ensures real choice and peace of mind for families, commissioners and supporting professionals. Money stays in the local economy.
“I am stronger inside and outside now. It feels really good when I can do things I couldn’t do before…”
Russell talking about his time with Envolve Wellness
“Before I started I was very shy, but look at me now! I go on it every week to show my work to everyone.”
Young person after attending a community enterprise session
We are commissioned, contracted or funded by public, third or private sector organisations to design and deliver this approach. We co-design and co-produce whenever possible.
