Springboard Community Hub
Sylvia has always believed that she can be the change people want to see, very clearly embodied in her motto that “change starts at home”. But opportunities were few and far in between – unaddressed power dynamics being one of the reasons.
The Springboard Community Hub brings people together to collaborate on creative ideas that address social issues. Through a series of workshops including coffee mornings, postnatal fitness classes, arts and crafts workshops and more, the hub cultivates a supportive, empowering and thriving environment for all.
Why did you think your project was important to address health and wellbeing in your community?
“There was a sentiment that something had to be done about it. For example, during one of the Tenants and Residents Association meetings the tenants and residents were sharing with a Southwark Council Official issues they were facing with their housing. There was further advocacy and one to one support after this meeting.
A good example was a specific TRA meeting (Tenants and Residents Assosciation), where residents and tenants shared issues they were facing with their housing with a Southwark Council official. There was further advocacy and one to one support after that meeting. As a part of my project facilitating these spaces, I was able to bring refreshments and snacks to support the community cohesion feel and provide healthier choices by focussing on sourcing fresh products locally.”
What's something that's surprised you in this process?
“I’ve learned a lot about different things, so I’ll group them up!
Decision-makers:
When it comes to decision-makers and local authorities, it’s all about finance. When you put pen to paper - all of sudden they will find something. That’s great, but you need to speak their language. Through this process, I learnt the importance of patience… The issues we have today took decades to emerge - and so they will take decades to disappear. That requires patience.
Community:
I have learnt how complex the community is - and while people might face the same issue, they might not require the same help. It’s not a one size fits all – it’s not about comparison. It is important we meet those individuals in the middle.
Therapy:
Running the project has been therapeutic… There are challenges that come with the TRA due to the power dynamics and sometimes people feel threatened, but it is always about leading with empathy and care.
Admin:
Admin has been difficult - I am a physical learner so sometimes budgeting has been challenging!”
What change would you like to see so that more people can be empowered to make decisions on the issues that affect them?
”More opportunities and more projects like The Giving Lab (there need to be spaces for people to feel supported and heard.) Also, there need to be more people who are community-centred to work with the community, otherwise it becomes an extractive process. TSIP has empowered change - and I no longer feel like giving up with my TRA. You cannot approach community work with a business mindset. I feel enough because I feel seen.”
