Community & Social in Torquay & South Devon

Promotes the art of letter writing through engaging workshops and community initiatives, including the innovative 10,000 Letter Challenge hosted at Totnes Library. They provide support and encouragement to individuals of all ages, fostering creativity, connection, and personal development through handwritten correspondence. Their activities also focus on the therapeutic benefits of writing unsent letters, helping participants explore their thoughts and feelings in a meaningful way. By revitalizing this traditional form of communication, they aim to strengthen community ties and enhance personal expression.

Offers a vibrant arts and crafts space in South Brent, providing classes and open sessions for individuals of all ages and abilities to engage in creative activities. The organization aims to combat social isolation by fostering a community hub where people can learn sustainable skills, participate in workshops, and enjoy collaborative projects. They also provide affordable studio space for local artists and run initiatives like bursaries to support those facing barriers to accessing creative opportunities. Regular drop-in sessions and family activities further enrich the community experience.

Provides a retail outlet and gallery space for over 50 local artists and makers in Chagford, Devon, showcasing high-quality handmade products across various mediums such as ceramics, textiles, and woodwork. The CIC supports both established and emerging creatives by offering a platform for their work and facilitating community art and craft projects. They are largely volunteer-run and aim to enhance artistic engagement within the local community through workshops and events. By celebrating local craftsmanship, they foster a sense of community and encourage the appreciation of art in the southwest.

Offers free, inclusive music workshops and events aimed at fostering creativity and skills development for individuals of all ages and abilities in the Torbay area. The organization provides opportunities for community engagement through music, including gigs, festivals, and volunteering initiatives. They aim to empower local youth and maintain the legacy of previous music projects in the region. Their programs are designed to create a safe and welcoming environment for participants to learn, play, and grow through music.

Focuses on fostering long-term climate resilience in South Devon through educational programs and collaborative projects. They offer workshops and initiatives that integrate art and ecology, aiming to reconnect communities with their local environment. The Centre serves local residents by providing alternative learning opportunities and promoting sustainable practices that enhance both economic and ecological resilience. Their unique approach includes engaging in creative endeavors that blend artistic expression with ecological awareness.

Offers vital information on local shops, attractions, and services in Bovey Tracey, along with guidance on walking, cycling, and accommodation options. The centre serves both visitors and residents, helping them explore the town's rich heritage and natural surroundings. Located in the Lower Car Park on Station Road, it acts as a hub for local knowledge and resources. The centre aims to enhance community engagement and support local tourism.

Provides a safe and supportive space for women aged 18 and over to improve their mental health and well-being through peer-led support groups. The organization operates without referrals or waiting lists, fostering a welcoming community for sharing experiences and finding support.

Organizes an annual free community event in Brixham, Devon, celebrating pirate culture through a lively weekend of entertainment, costumes, and activities. The festival engages residents and visitors of all ages, fostering community spirit and supporting local businesses.

Transforms a section of the disused Brixham Branch track-bed into an accessible walking and cycling trail, promoting Brixham's rich geological, economic, and cultural heritage. The initiative includes guided walking tours and illustrated signboards, benefiting local residents and visitors interested in the area's history. It provides a safer recreational route for the community, linking various parts of Brixham while encouraging outdoor activities. The project aims to enhance community engagement and awareness of local heritage through this scenic trail.

Offers engaging activities and experiences for adults with learning disabilities, focusing on creativity, healthy lifestyles, and social inclusion. Provides a supportive environment for participants to explore various techniques and skills while enjoying fun events throughout the year.

Offers educational opportunities and activities aimed at promoting cycling as a choice for active travel within the Torbay community. They provide bicycle maintenance workshops, social bike rides, and facilitate the donation and sale of bicycles to encourage active lifestyles. Their initiatives are designed to enhance cycling skills and improve the health and wellbeing of local residents, including both youth and adults. Cycle Torbay aims to create an inclusive environment for cyclists of all levels, from beginners to seasoned riders, fostering a community around cycling.

Organizes inclusive events and activities to support the local LGBTQ+ community and their allies in Dartmouth. Focuses on fostering a sense of belonging, celebrating diversity, and providing resources for individuals and families navigating LGBTQ+ issues.

Promotes Dartmouth as a vibrant tourist destination while managing the local Visitor Centre. Supports local businesses and enhances the visitor experience to drive year-round economic growth in the area.

Provides independent oversight of police practices, focusing on Stop & Search and Use of Force in Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly. The organization facilitates community scrutiny panels that empower local residents, particularly those from marginalized groups, to engage in discussions about police interactions. They aim to promote transparency and accountability within the police force by increasing awareness of police procedures and public rights. Their unique approach includes making police body-worn video footage more accessible and publicizing scrutiny results to enhance community trust.

Provides meals and support to individuals experiencing food poverty, including the homeless and vulnerable members of the community, while also offering opportunities for skill development through volunteering and cooking lessons.

Offers authentic sauna experiences in Teignmouth and Exmouth, focusing on relaxation and wellness for individuals in the local community. They provide discounted 'Wellbeing Wednesday' sessions and free sauna access for those facing severe financial difficulty, ensuring inclusivity and support for all. The saunas serve as a community hub where individuals can connect, recharge, and engage in wellbeing programs amidst the scenic coastal beauty of South and East Devon.

Enhances the visitor experience in Salcombe by providing essential information on local attractions, activities, and events, while promoting sustainable tourism. The organization supports both tourists and the local community, showcasing the unique offerings of South Devon to ensure a memorable and responsible visit. They offer resources such as event listings, accommodation options, and local insights to help visitors navigate the area. Their focus on sustainable tourism also encourages responsible travel practices among visitors.

Promotes and supports the local food and drink sector in Devon by showcasing exceptional food and drink businesses. They provide resources, networking opportunities, and community initiatives aimed at enhancing sustainability and visibility for local producers. The organization serves food and drink producers, retailers, and hospitality venues, helping them connect with consumers and the wider community. Their efforts focus on celebrating and sharing the best of Devon's produce, ensuring that quality, sustainability, and provenance are at the forefront of their initiatives.

Provides food parcels to low-income families in Devon during school holidays, ensuring children have access to nutritious meals when school is not in session. The organization has supported 199 families and provided over 27,000 meals since its inception. They actively seek food donations and have various campaigns to gather support for upcoming holiday periods. Their approach includes collaboration with local growers for fresh produce and a clear call for community involvement through donations and volunteering.

Operates a community-focused coffee shop and specialty coffee roasters that not only serve high-quality coffee but also actively engage with and support the local community in Paignton. They provide a welcoming environment where local residents can gather, fostering connections and uplifting the community. Their initiatives include supporting local organizations and offering a space for community events, making them a vital part of the local social fabric.

Creating beautiful book exchanges across the UK to promote reading, art and community engagement. Each book exchange is artfully decorated and filled with beautiful books for people of all ages to read, share and enjoy.

Offers a vibrant community space that includes facilities such as office spaces, meeting rooms, and recreational areas, all aimed at fostering collaboration among local organizations. They focus on empowering young people and residents of Paignton and Torbay through various community projects and events. The site highlights their skatepark and BMX track, which provide safe environments for youth to engage in sports and develop skills. Additionally, they aim to restore Parkfield House and Gardens, creating a hub for community activities and partnerships.

Provides a creative community space and heritage archive in Buckfastleigh, featuring a café, performance areas, and workshops. They host local events, courses, and classes aimed at enhancing community engagement and well-being. The centre also operates a community fridge to reduce food waste and supports local residents, including children and families, through various collaborative projects. Their flexible spaces are available for hire, fostering creativity and social cohesion within the community.

Offers tailored support for individuals and families facing emotional, sensory, or cognitive challenges, with a focus on those living with dementia, neurodivergence, and grief. Their services include counselling, creative and social groups, wellbeing therapies, and intergenerational activities designed to foster meaningful connections and empower participants. Operating in Kingsbridge, South Devon, they emphasize community involvement and adapt their offerings based on the needs of those they serve. Their unique approach integrates professional expertise with lived experience to create supportive environments for connection and personal growth.

Offers a vibrant community hub at Parkfield House and Gardens, providing a range of facilities including a skatepark, BMX track, and meeting spaces. They focus on engaging young people from Paignton and Torbay, fostering collaboration among community partners to enhance local well-being. The organization hosts various activities and events aimed at promoting social interaction and skill development for youth. Their commitment to revitalizing a historic site creates a unique environment for community engagement and support.

Offers nature-based workshops and community events focused on foraging, crafting, and sustainable living to help individuals reconnect with nature and enhance their mental and physical well-being.

Offers free online peer support groups for individuals living with chronic illnesses and mental health challenges. Participants can engage in regular virtual meetings, fostering a compassionate environment for connection and shared experiences. The organization aims to combat feelings of isolation and misunderstanding among its members. Based in Torquay, they adapt their services to accommodate medical needs, ensuring ongoing support through digital platforms.

Offers a range of wellness and community support services in Torquay, focusing on mental health and personal development. They provide flexible office space, meeting rooms for various activities, and therapy rooms for alternative healing practices. The organization aims to empower individuals, particularly vulnerable groups such as the Ukrainian community, by fostering connection and personal growth. Their dedicated team, led by an experienced energy psychologist, is committed to creating a supportive environment for all community members.

Stepping Stones Totnes CIC operates a food bank and the TQ9 Food Club, providing affordable food options to individuals and families facing financial hardship in Totnes and the surrounding TQ9 area. They also run the Warm Hearts Café, offering pay-what-you-can meals to support community wellbeing. Since relocating to St John's Church in January 2024, they have become a vital community hub, serving thousands of meals and supporting those in need.

Organizes and hosts community-focused events, with a primary emphasis on the Teignmouth Airshow, to promote local culture and tourism in Teignmouth, Devon. The organization enhances community engagement and provides family-friendly entertainment for residents and visitors alike.

Provides nutrition and wellness support specifically for women, focusing on those experiencing menopause. The organization offers educational workshops and community events in Paignton and surrounding areas, empowering participants with resources and advocacy to improve their health and wellbeing. They emphasize practical nutritional education to combat the crisis of nutrition caused by a lack of accessible information. Their unique approach includes being a licensed menopause advocate, providing a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and learn about managing menopause symptoms.

Provides a community-focused café experience that offers low-cost, nutritious food, educational programs, and a creative space for local residents in Newton Abbot. The Cwtch Hub aims to reduce social isolation and tackle poverty by creating an inclusive environment where individuals and families can connect, learn, and share. They support local artists and small businesses through various initiatives, including pop-up events and mentoring opportunities. Their mission emphasizes collaboration with the community and fostering a sense of belonging for everyone who visits.

Offers support and resources for mothers and postpartum individuals during the critical postpartum period. They provide monthly drop-in sessions where families can access information and community support, as well as various projects designed to enhance the wellbeing of their beneficiaries. The organization focuses on helping new parents navigate the challenges of parenthood, fostering a supportive environment for both mothers and their families. Based in Newton Abbot, they aim to create a community that understands and addresses the unique needs of postpartum individuals.

Provides essential support for mothers through breastfeeding and bottlefeeding guidance, babywearing education, and peer support groups. They cater specifically to mothers and families in Kingsbridge and the surrounding areas, creating a nurturing environment for connection and learning during the parenting journey. Their services include antenatal classes and one-on-one feeding support, ensuring that families receive compassionate help tailored to their unique needs. The organization emphasizes building a community where every mother feels seen, valued, and supported.

Offers community engagement activities and essential life skills training for young people and adults, particularly those with learning disabilities. The project focuses on fostering personal development and social inclusion, empowering beneficiaries to bridge the gap between ability and opportunity. They provide a welcoming environment where individuals can participate in various activities, meet dedicated team members, and engage with the community. Based in Newton Abbot, they aim to create a positive impact through their initiatives.

Clearing South Devon shorelines of plastic pollution using a recyclable boat and a fleet of recycled kayaks. They promote circular economic behavior and wellbeing through outdoor activities and team-building beach cleans. The organization engages volunteers from diverse backgrounds to participate in grassroots community nature regeneration projects, making a positive impact on both the environment and local communities. Their initiatives aim to foster awareness and action to protect coastal ecosystems while providing educational programs that benefit the community.

Organizes community-focused events and workshops that enhance cultural engagement and cohesion in Paignton. They provide opportunities for local residents to participate in arts, heritage, and environmental projects, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in the community. Their initiatives include festivals, art exhibitions, and educational programs that celebrate the area's cultural identity. By collaborating with local organizations and residents, they aim to create inclusive experiences that resonate with diverse community members.

Provides support and resources to local community groups and initiatives in Paignton, focusing on enhancing community engagement and development. They assist families and individuals in need through various outreach programs and support services, promoting a stronger, more connected community. Their approach includes empowering communities to create real change in their neighborhoods, with a focus on volunteering opportunities and collaboration with the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise sector. The organization aims to improve communication and decision-making across the region, ensuring that all voices are heard.

Provides affordable crafting materials sourced from surplus and donated items while offering engaging workshops and activities that promote skills development, creativity, and sustainability within the community.

Offers affordable bike repairs and maintenance services, along with a selection of pre-loved bikes and cycling equipment. The Hub provides educational workshops on bike maintenance and organizes confidence-building rides for adults who are new to cycling. They serve the local community in Totnes by acting as a cycling hub, hosting events and courses that support cyclists of all ages and abilities. Their unique approach includes restoring and selling re-loved bikes, promoting sustainability and community engagement.