Networks

Greater than the sum of its parts

We believe that part of building stronger communities means developing strong community networks. This means listening and responding to our community while acknowledging that the value of the network is not in creating a one-size-fits-all response to community issues, but in trusting members to deliver solutions and generate their own means of supporting themselves and each other.

We use our unique position to convene responses to emerging need, creating and developing specialist networks of charities that address our county’s most pressing issues. Working together means not only are we more efficient, but by sharing learning we can achieve more.

Take a look at some of the networks we’ve helped convene

The Nourishing Norfolk Network

The Nourishing Norfolk Network brings together groups of all sizes who work at grassroots level to ensure communities have access to affordable, healthy food. Established last year, the network provides mutual support, advice and information to help combat food insecurity and make sure no one in Norfolk goes hungry. The Networks works closely with Feeding Britain, who help develop projects that improve people’s access to affordable food and reduce food insecurity, and Norse Group, who have donated central warehouse space and delivery drivers to support the programme.

A handful of members of the Nourishing Norfolk Network together at an event
Good for Good

Good for Good is helping over 100 Norfolk businesses of all sizes connect with charities that need their time, expertise, and resources. Whether it’s offering professional skills, donating assets, or providing funding, Good for Good ensures local businesses’ contributions help those who need it most.

Attendees at a Good for Good event offering support on storytelling and publicity
The Sir Norman Lamb Coalition for Young People

The Sir Norman Lamb Coalition for Young people brings together over 50 charities and community organisations in Norfolk supporting childre and young people’s mental health and wellbeing. The Coalition provides access to shared resources and opportunities including funding and training, helps to share good practice, raises the profile of the work groups do, and links up with larger countywide and national networks, enables groups to both sustain their existing offer and grow.

Members of the Sir Norman Lamb Coalition for Young People together
Community Hot-Spots

Community Hot-Spots were a network of local charities and groups brought together to make sure everyone had a warm space they could easily reach where they could meet others, get respite from the cold, and find support. Thanks to the support of local donors through our 2022/23 Surviving Winter appeal, as well as additional assistance from Norfolk County Council, Norwich City Council, Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk, and the East of England Coop, we were able to fund over 160 Community Hot-Spots.

Two women look out of a window. The window has a welcome sign inside.
Head of Programmes, Laura Wigby, at a Community Hot-Spot