Local housing association Alliance Homes has awarded £3,500 to the Pill Community Foundation’s Resource Centre to help improve digital connectivity and access to support services for local residents.
The funding, part of Alliance Homes’ Communities Together Grants, has enabled the Resource Centre to purchase three new computers, complete with updated software, as well as matching chairs and two digital display screens for sharing local events and directing residents to key resources and services
Sue Adamson, a volunteer at the Resource Centre, was involved in the grant application. She explained that the application was driven by the need to improve the services available to residents in Pill, Ham Green and Easton-in-Gordano.
Sue highlighted that Pill West is the only area in North Somerset, outside of Weston-super-Mare, identified as deprived by government statistics, with low-income families, as well as poor health and disability-related barriers.
“The funding has transformed the Centre,” says Sue. “We’re better equipped to connect people with the information and support they need.”
Local resident Libby Flanagan, who frequently visits the Centre added:
“I often come here to spend time with people, chat, and meet with the support services that use the space. The community fridge and surplus food table here have also helped me a lot. I’m looking forward to being able to use the new computers – I'm not a computer whizz, so I'm glad the volunteers are here to help.”
Louise Swain, Alliance Homes Group Chief Executive, visited the Resource Centre to see the improvements. She says: “It’s great to see the positive impact our Communities Together Grants are having on local communities across North Somerset, especially here in Pill.
“What makes our grants special is that our customers are the ones who decide where funds go, ensuring that the support reaches those who need it most.”
“It’s been wonderful to speak with the volunteers and residents, hearing first-hand how they’re benefitting from the Resource Centre and our grants.”
Alliance Homes’ Communities Together Grants will reopen in early 2025. For more information visit Alliance Homes’ website: www.alliancehomes.org.uk/communities-together-grants