Suffolk CICs

Provides a community café that serves high-quality coffee, tea, cakes, and sandwiches while functioning as a training and employment hub for young individuals with disabilities. The organization focuses on empowering these young people by offering structured programs that help them develop essential life skills and transferable skills in a supportive and inclusive environment. Operating in Martlesham Heath, Suffolk, 21 Young Hearts C.I.C. is dedicated to fostering independence and confidence among its beneficiaries through meaningful employment opportunities.

Facilitates and supports innovative educational initiatives that promote the well-being of children and young people. The organization offers a range of courses, consultancy services, and community events aimed at enhancing personal development and emotional health. They advocate for the importance of childhood in shaping a just and sustainable society, drawing on A.S. Neill's philosophies and the practices of Summerhill School. Operating from Leiston, Suffolk, they engage with various stakeholders to implement their educational values globally.

Promotes grassroots rugby and physical fitness in the local community by providing a welcoming environment for players of all ages and skill levels. The club offers training sessions, matches, and social events aimed at fostering connections among players and supporters. They particularly focus on engaging young adults and newcomers to the sport, helping them develop both athletic skills and personal growth. Located in Saxmundham, they aim to create an inclusive atmosphere that supports community engagement through sports.

Designs and implements creative projects and professional development programmes aimed at improving lives through art and culture. They provide consultancy services to various organizations, including schools, arts and cultural organizations, and health projects, focusing on enhancing mental health and wellbeing. Their initiatives particularly benefit children and young people, fostering resilience and engagement through bespoke artistic learning opportunities. Operating primarily in Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge, they collaborate with notable partners such as Arts Council England and the BBC to strengthen cultural participation.

Provides a creative hub for local artists and community groups in Ipswich, specializing in branding, design, and collaborative projects. They offer accessible design services aimed at empowering individuals and fostering community engagement through art. The studio hosts exhibitions and workshops, creating opportunities for local talent to showcase their work and connect with the community. Their initiatives focus on making art accessible and impactful for everyone in the area.

Focuses on community and place-making through visual art and food, delivering street art, events, and creative workshops across the UK. They engage with local authorities, businesses, and community groups to create participatory art projects that foster community cohesion and enhance cultural enrichment. Their unique approach includes collaborating with talented artists to produce murals that reflect local themes and messages, while also offering workshops that develop creative skills for individuals of all ages. Inclusion and authentic engagement are central to their mission, ensuring that projects resonate with the communities they serve.

Delivers consultancy and training in diversity and inclusion, focusing on Black culture, heritage, and history education. They engage with schools, cultural organizations, and employers to promote positive discussions and creative solutions to tackle inequalities. Their projects are primarily aimed at young people and the local Black community, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. Aspire Black Suffolk is committed to addressing issues related to race, justice, and equality through innovative educational initiatives.

Provides high-quality nursery and day care services for children aged 3 months to 5 years. The playschool supports families in the Woodbridge area by offering an inclusive, nurturing environment that caters to diverse needs, including special educational requirements. They are open Monday to Friday and accept Early Years Funding for eligible children, ensuring accessible childcare options. With a focus on early childhood development, they promote healthy eating and smooth transitions to primary school through strong local partnerships.

Creates and maintains pollinator-friendly spaces while engaging the community in local environmental initiatives. Promotes biodiversity and supports local bee populations to foster a healthier urban ecosystem.

Offers a range of essential services aimed at supporting Black and minority ethnic communities in Northwest Ipswich. Their activities include a food bank, employment and housing support, and a youth forum that engages young people through various projects. They also run a community cafe and monthly gatherings to foster social connections and combat isolation. The organization is committed to promoting well-being and cultural integration among its beneficiaries.

Provides virtual peer support for individuals affected by breast cancer, including those who are newly diagnosed, in treatment, recovering, or living with a secondary diagnosis. The organization fosters a safe and friendly environment where members can connect, share experiences, and support one another. Operating primarily in Essex and Suffolk, they offer dedicated peer support hubs that emphasize community and understanding among those facing similar challenges. Their approach focuses on creating a pressure-free space for real conversations and emotional support.

Offers football training and competitive opportunities for youth and adults in Ipswich, fostering physical fitness and teamwork. The club is dedicated to supporting players of all abilities and encourages community engagement through sports.

Organizes free film screenings for residents of Bury St. Edmunds and surrounding areas, fostering community engagement and promoting a love for cinema. The group offers a welcoming atmosphere for diverse audiences, including families, teenagers, and adults. In addition to in-person screenings, they provide online competitions for film enthusiasts, enhancing accessibility and participation. Their events aim to create a sense of community while providing enjoyable entertainment options for all.

Offers a variety of outdoor adventure activities such as canoeing, axe throwing, archery, and bushcraft, primarily in Thetford Forest and across East Anglia. They aim to make nature accessible to families, schools, and corporate groups, particularly those facing barriers to outdoor experiences. Their programs foster a deeper connection with the natural world, encouraging participants to embrace the outdoors through engaging and educational experiences. With a focus on inclusivity, they provide tailored activities that cater to diverse groups and skill levels.

Provides tailored private therapy services focusing on mental health and emotional well-being for children, adults, and families in Bury St Edmunds. Their offerings include adult therapy, child and adolescent therapy, family support, trauma therapy, and specialized programs like 'ESCAPE THE TRAP' aimed at helping young people recognize relationship abuse. The approach emphasizes creating a safe, confidential, and compassionate space for clients to explore their emotions and heal. Led by qualified psychotherapist Stacey Cole, the services are designed to meet individual needs and challenges.

Facilitates research, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing among local residents and businesses to combat climate change. They offer the Low Carbon Champions program, which provides tailored support for SMEs to implement sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprints. The initiative encourages community engagement by rewarding top contributors with trees, fostering a collective approach to environmental responsibility. Operating primarily in Suffolk, they aim to empower local businesses and residents to take actionable steps towards sustainability.

Advocates for the preservation of Suffolk's rural environment by challenging inappropriate planning applications and promoting sustainable policies. They engage with local communities, including residents from Flowton, Burstall, Bramford Tye, Bramford, Somersham, and Elmsett, to raise awareness about the impact of industrial developments like solar farms. The group is volunteer-run and focuses on ensuring that community interests are prioritized over commercial developments. Their efforts include sharing knowledge with other groups and the public to foster a collective commitment to protecting local landscapes and wildlife.

Provides support to households and communities in Ipswich to reduce energy costs and improve resilience through sustainable energy solutions. They offer guidance on available grants, case studies, and planning challenges, empowering local residents to make informed decisions about energy efficiency. Their initiatives also focus on reducing the carbon footprint of community buildings, enhancing their financial viability. Additionally, they aim to foster community energy generation by addressing barriers and advocating for necessary changes in the energy landscape.

Inspires children to read and write through storytelling workshops, school visits, and after-school clubs. Supports parents and educators in fostering a love for literacy among children, particularly those affected by addiction.

Provides opportunities for individuals living with health challenges and disabilities to engage with arts, culture, and heritage through various creative activities. Their programs include drama workshops for visually impaired adults and singing groups aimed at promoting health and well-being. Operating primarily in Woodbridge and across Suffolk, they focus on enhancing social interaction and creativity among participants. Their initiatives also include advocacy and training to share knowledge and experience in the arts sector.

Provides a supportive environment through the UK's first well-being and mental health coffee shop, specifically aimed at individuals facing mental health challenges, including veterans and ex-uniformed personnel. They offer training and employment opportunities in the coffee industry, empowering beneficiaries through meaningful work and community engagement. The organization reinvests profits into outreach programs and development initiatives, enhancing the lives of those they serve. Combat2Coffee also collaborates with various partners to expand their impact, such as opening new coffee areas and facilities in different locations.

Offers inclusive activities aimed at enhancing physical health, mental wellbeing, and social connections for individuals of all ages and abilities. Their services include fitness programs like Baby Fit, which support new mothers in regaining strength and confidence, as well as community engagement initiatives that foster friendships and combat isolation. The organization operates in Felixstowe, Suffolk, and focuses on creating a supportive environment for participants to improve their overall wellbeing. They emphasize the importance of social connections and community involvement in promoting healthier lifestyles.

Provides accessible spaces for artists, creatives, small businesses, and community groups to collaborate on cultural projects in Ipswich. They offer affordable studio spaces, host workshops, and facilitate events to support local talent and foster community engagement. The initiative aims to revitalize the town centre by transforming empty commercial spaces into vibrant community hubs. Their unique approach encourages collaboration and creativity, helping to enhance the cultural landscape of Ipswich.

Promotes sustainable agricultural practices and supports local farmers in Bury St. Edmunds through educational initiatives and community engagement. They provide resources and information to help residents connect with local food sources, emphasizing the importance of supporting British agriculture. The organization also encourages community involvement in food hubs and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about food security and sustainability. Their efforts are designed to foster a resilient local food system that benefits both producers and consumers.

Offers inclusive singing workshops and regular sessions that promote wellbeing and self-expression among adults. The choir welcomes individuals of all abilities, providing a supportive environment for personal growth through music. With over 400 members across Suffolk, they engage in community activities and performances, fostering connections and raising funds for local charities. Their unique approach includes no auditions or prior experience required, making it accessible for everyone to join and enjoy the benefits of singing.

Community Support Network C.I.C. provides vital assistance and resources to residents in Ipswich and surrounding areas affected by flooding, focusing on recovery efforts and enhancing community resilience. The organization specifically supports vulnerable individuals and families impacted by natural disasters, ensuring they receive necessary aid during challenging times.

Offers a range of theatre workshops and performance opportunities aimed at children, young people, and adults in Suffolk, particularly in Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds. Their programs emphasize fostering creativity and building confidence through the performing arts, with a strong commitment to inclusivity for individuals with physical disabilities and additional learning requirements. Regular activities include musical theatre routines and cabaret performances, which also serve as fundraising events to support their initiatives. The CIC aims to make the arts accessible and engaging for all participants.

Promotes wellbeing by fostering connections among individuals, families, and the wider community in Stowmarket and surrounding areas. They offer workshops, social events, and outreach programs aimed at enhancing mental health and reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Their approach emphasizes the importance of connection for both younger and older generations, providing resources and support to help people engage with themselves and their communities. By creating a safe space for individuals to explore their identities and relationships, they aim to improve overall wellbeing.

Creative Leiston C.I.C. enhances community engagement in Leiston through a variety of art projects and initiatives, including the creation of public artwork and educational programs for local schools. They also operate The Leiston Pantry, providing 15,000 meals weekly to support residents in need.

Facilitates networking and professional development opportunities for alumni of the CUAS community through various events and activities. The organization focuses on enhancing community engagement among former students by providing a platform for collaboration and support. They organize events that promote alumni interaction and offer resources to help members in their professional journeys. The CUAS Alumni Association aims to foster a strong sense of community among its members, encouraging lifelong connections and shared experiences.

Empowers university students, particularly young women and underrepresented groups, by providing resources, networking opportunities, and support in cybersecurity. The organization operates student-led branches across various universities in the UK, fostering skill development and confidence in a traditionally male-dominated field. They encourage participation through their Discord community, where members can connect and collaborate. By promoting diversity in STEM, they aim to create an inclusive environment that supports positive change.

Empowers disabled students by providing resources, support, and a community to enhance accessibility within higher education institutions. Focuses on bridging the knowledge gap around accessibility and ensuring inclusive educational environments for students with disabilities.

Provides a welcoming outdoor space where individuals of all ages and abilities can engage in farming activities, connect with nature, and learn about sustainable food practices. The farm offers hands-on experiences such as animal care, food growing, harvesting, and cooking, specifically designed to support individuals with diverse needs. Located in Bury St. Edmunds, it serves local schools, parents, and alternative education providers, fostering inclusivity and personal growth through educational programs. Unique initiatives like the 'Care And Grow Club' encourage community involvement and learning in a nurturing environment.

Encourages residents of Felixstowe to engage in sustainable gardening by growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs in community spaces. They offer opportunities for local engagement through gardening initiatives, cooking demonstrations, and events aimed at enhancing the local environment. The organization fosters community connections and promotes the mental health benefits of outdoor activities. Their mission is to make growing and enjoying locally produced food accessible and enjoyable for everyone in the community.

Provides support for independent female musicians aged 18 and above through opportunities for music creation, promotion, and live performance. They offer services such as recording, releasing, and marketing music, along with guidance on skill development and funding. Their unique Sofa2Stage course is designed to build confidence in aspiring female singers, helping them navigate their musical careers. Operating primarily in the UK, they focus on empowering women in the music industry.

Organizes the UK's first Fringe Literature Festival, featuring author talks, workshops, spoken word performances, and book fairs that support emerging and established writers. Engages the local community in Bury St Edmunds and surrounding areas, promoting literacy and a love for literature among diverse audiences.

Organizes and promotes live classical music concerts featuring exceptional musicians, including Grammy award-winners and BBC Music Magazine award-winners. They primarily benefit the residents of Fressingfield and the surrounding areas, fostering a love for music and cultural engagement within the community. The concerts provide an opportunity for local audiences to experience high-quality performances in an accessible setting. Their programming includes a variety of classical music genres, aimed at enriching the cultural landscape of Suffolk.

Provides hands-on education and support for young people and independent game developers in the East of England. Their initiatives include workshops, events, and networking opportunities designed to equip participants with essential skills and industry connections. Game Anglia focuses on fostering talent through practical experiences, such as the ELEVATE workshops and the Game Anglia Festival, where individuals can showcase their games and learn from industry experts. Their mission is to empower the next generation of game developers to succeed in both the UK and international markets.

Offers therapeutic experiences through interactive animal engagement, focusing on mental and emotional well-being. They provide one-to-one animal therapy and education sessions for both children and adults, as well as work experience opportunities. Located just outside Bury St Edmunds, they operate a well-being farm where individuals can connect with animals in a supportive environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of healing connections between people and animals, promoting education and therapy simultaneously.

Offers accessible in-person yoga sessions specifically designed for individuals with limited mobility or health challenges. The gentle seated practices promote physical well-being and relaxation, allowing participants to engage at their own pace and adapt movements to their individual needs. Operating primarily in Woodbridge, the sessions are led by qualified instructor Imogen Hayward, who focuses on making yoga accessible to all. The program has successfully grown from a small pilot to over 300 registered participants, reflecting its positive impact on the community.