The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Community Micro-Enterprise Project helped local people establish and grow small, community-led enterprises that support autistic people, people with learning disabilities, older people and people living with dementia.
Over two and a half years, ending in June 2026, 20 enterprises achieved the Community Catalysts Doing it Right Standards. The project worked closely with the Local Area Coordination programme, supporting residents in some of the borough’s most disadvantaged communities to develop enterprises that addressed local needs and strengthened neighbourhood connections.
An independent council evaluation found that the project generated a social return on investment of £3.15 for every £1 invested, demonstrating the significant value community micro-enterprises can create for residents and local systems.
Overall, the project increased local choice, strengthened community capacity and helped build a more personalised approach to care and support across the borough
“As we reach the end of this project with Community Catalysts, it is clear how much has been achieved through a genuinely collaborative and values-driven partnership. Together, we have established a strong network of Community Micro Enterprises across Westminster and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, strengthening local, personalised care and creating meaningful opportunities for residents.
Community Catalysts have been exceptional partners—professional, solution-focused and a pleasure to work with—playing a central role in shaping and embedding this offer. Their approach, alongside the energy and commitment of Joe and Bhupinder, has been instrumental in building a sustainable model that reflects the strength, resilience and potential of locally led care.”
