How Sylvia found new hope in community work through The Giving Lab
It was at an event for the Tenants and Residents Associations (TRA) and residents living in local housing estates in Walworth that community organiser Sylvia Raven first met Serena, The Giving Lab’s Engagement & Outreach Lead. At the time, she was feeling disgruntled by her community volunteering work and let down by how political it had all become. When Serena told her about The Giving Lab, she was drawn to it because it genuinely tries to help the whole community and not just a small part of it.
Sylvia explained that she hadn’t heard of participatory grantmaking before. But when she joined the community-led funding programme that was co-designed with TSIP and local residents in West-Central Southwark, she finally felt heard and seen - something she hadn’t experienced with other funders. “It’s incredible to finally have someone legitimise our plight, someone who does what they say. Now, with the backing of a reputable organisation like The Giving Lab, we can hold the council and other decision-makers accountable for their promises and (in)actions.”
“It’s incredible to finally have someone legitimise our plight.”
When Sylvia first took the Giving Lab to her community, she got a turnout of 26 people. Some were reluctant at first - after all, they had been called on for their ideas in the past, to no avail. But when Sylvia explained the planning process, she helped overcome some of their hesitation. She makes sure to keep the community updated as the project progresses, so that everyone can see that steps are being taken. “Everything takes time, but as long as people see action, they will feel reassured that they’re not being left behind” she says.
In addition to the potential for real change within social housing in Walworth, Sylvia’s own mental health has improved since working with The Giving Lab. She mentions leaving every session feeling rejuvenated, energised, motivated, her sense of purpose reawakened. “There’s no ego” she says. “Every voice is valid and everyone listens to each other.”
At the moment, Sylvia is busy delivering Spring Board, an initiative driven by local residents from the housing estate to create a space where innovative ideas addressing social determinants of health can flourish. Through art, interactive activities and workshops, Spring Board promotes community voices and individual empowerment, bringing the spirit of the Giving Lab to life.
