Find out which venues would best meet people’s needs and understand when people would want to use them; check it is somewhere people are familiar with; is it accessible for those with additional needs ‑ be mindful that venues won’t always be flexible to meet your needs
Ensure that safe and appropriate equipment is available in order to run the session ‑ do people need to bring their own kit or will it be provided?
Our Gang
They ensured that the facilities and resources would be appropriate for this ND community – acoustics, lighting, no whiteboards, space to be authentic to themselves, melt down area, appropriate activities for this group (rules, focus, detail) and space for carers to share experiences. Gradually expanded into four rooms so suitable places for all needs. These include a black out room with no noise for distressed young people. They also have a Facebook page which is working well and parents are using it to support each other and pass on information.
Could refreshments (including food) be provided in a way that is suitable for your provision or group, it might also be the hook to get people to come along in the first place ‑ consider how these can be sourced and funded ‑ it can help people to socialise and feel connected
Diversify Education
All of their activities involve a meal either as a buy in, a carrot for some or a necessity for those with limited means. The communal meal after the Dads and Lads football session is a great opportunity for everyone to talk and engage in conversations about their wellbeing and mental health as well as building connections with other members of the community. One of the lads travels from Sneinton via two buses to attend the sessions despite there being another football community clubs in his area. He felt that none of the sessions were suitable for him because he didn’t see people who looked like him. A refugee comes from Derby, meaning he has one less day a week at work, so he can join in the sessions. He had no friends or social connections but he’s now got a focus for the week, somewhere safe to play footy, have a warm meal and a chat.
Ensure that those leading the session are trusted people, that they have the right skills to engage with people and that they understand the needs of people
Deaf-initely Women
Walking groups were arranged and planned as a collaboration between Deaf-initely Women and local walk coordinators in Derby, meaning that they considered details and barriers that wouldn’t have been considered without their involvement.
Think about how the session will be funded; will everyone be asked to contribute to a session fee, and will this be sustainable in the long term?
The Indian Community Centre Association
Attendees were asked to make a small contribution so that the session could continue after the initial funding stopped and that worked as they were already interested and invested in the sessions.
Have something to aim for eg stickers, awards, certificates, achievement file
Your Time – Believe, Belong, Become CIC
Each of the participants had a loyalty card and when they got 10 stickers they could then get a branded water bottle or T shirt, even small rewards can have a big effect.
