The Core Centre: A Lifeline for Calverton and Surrounding Villages

The Core Centre is a well-established, award-nominated community hub rooted in the heart of Calverton, Nottinghamshire, serving over 1,800 people each year through more than 15,000 individual interactions. We provide more than 40 distinct services and activities designed to combat loneliness, improve physical and mental health, relieve hardship, and help local people – particularly older adults – to live independent, connected, and fulfilling lives.

Our Offer
-----------
Core delivers an integrated mix of health and wellbeing activities, creative groups, advice services, social eating opportunities, and essential practical support. Services range from specialist falls prevention training and hearing aid clinics to digital skills tuition, arts and crafts classes, community events, and a food pantry distributing over 3,800 low-cost boxes of food in the past two years. Many initiatives are led by our dedicated volunteers, who give over 120 hours weekly to their community.

Community Impact
-----------------
• 99% of surveyed users report improved wellbeing since attending Core.
• 90% of attendees access more than one service, and 55% access four or more.
• 77% of falls prevention participants report better strength, balance, and confidence.
• 85% of hearing clinic attendees report improved quality of life.
• Digital skills sessions have enabled over 160 people annually to connect with family, access services, and improve independence.
• The food pantry and cost-of-living support have helped hundreds of households reduce food insecurity and financial strain.
• 85% of volunteers stay with us for more than a year, gaining confidence, skills, and social connection.

We act as a first point of contact for those in need – from helping people complete complex forms for benefits, to hosting Citizens Advice sessions, to offering a safe space for a chat and a cuppa.

Case Studies
-------------
Case Study. Joanne first attended Core at a critical moment in her life; her partner who she had been the main carer for passed away. Joanne had no close family and felt very isolated since the pandemic. Initially, Core helped Joanne come to terms with her loss, offering emotional support; we encouraged her to attend our bereavement group. We also worked through paperwork/financial issues surrounding her husband’s estate. Over time Joanne’s relationship with Core became stronger and she decided to join our walking group. Joanne went from strength to strength making friends and building her confidence. We discovered that she’d lived in Calverton for over 3 years, rarely leaving home until coming to Core, so the walks were almost magical for her. Joanne also attended our seated exercise group, had IT help and now supports another lady who is house bound (contact through Core).
Impact and Achievements
We work with approximately 1800 people each year, delivering over 15,000 interactions. We know that individuals benefit from multiple and diverse interventions when building a support network. Combining various forms of support such as therapy, community involvement, and social connections, enhances overall wellbeing and resilience. Core builds relationships with individuals that encourage them to seek help for multiple issues, and form relationships with staff, volunteers and other people. Core has not only created a welcoming environment for participants but has also seen long-term impacts, such as increased community involvement, and higher rates of sustained independence among participants. Over the last 4 years, participant interactions have steadily risen from 7k interactions yearly to around 15k currently. 55% of participants continue to engage with four or more services, indicating a deepening connection and long-term support network.
●       139/146 people in a recent survey said there was nowhere else locally that provided the help that Core gives. One client stated “I feel that if I had a problem, I would feel much more able to cope now that I know the support Core provides”. This increase in resilience and wellbeing brings peace of mind and improved relationships for the wider family too “My mum and dad have been attending Core and it has been genuinely life changing for them. They’ve both made new friends and even gone out for meals together” Another user states “I never normally leave my home as I find it difficult to go out and meet people. My daughter insisted I come initially and I was really frightened about mixing with people, the kindness of the people here helped me feel at ease”. People feel comforted and supported by Core, so that they can go on to solve other issues in their lives, leading to greater resilience and independence. We know this as people return weekly recommending us to others and registers show that activities continue to be very well attended.
●       For our recently started lunch club, our initial pilot project for 65 people received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 100% of participants enjoying the experience and 73% attending to "get out of the house" and "make friends." This feedback indicates the project's effectiveness in combating loneliness and isolation. 
●       90% of craft group members to Core are regular attendees and many state it’s their main social activity weekly, many often use our other services when needed
●       77% of participants to the falls prevention clinic feel stronger, with better balance and would know how to get up from the floor safely. Many chair based exercisers claim it helps reduce pain from arthritis and other muscular skeletal issues. We know that line dancing, table tennis and walking all improve coordination, balance and flexibility as well as cardiovascular health and brain memory. Over 90% of our attendees report feeling more exhilarated, healthy and happier.
●       85% of those attending one of our hearing clinics feel more positive about their hearing. Studies prove improved hearing impacts relationships, cognitive function and emotional health, contributing to better quality of life for individuals dealing with impaired hearing. Many people visit us for help with hearing aids, ear wax removal etc. who’d struggle to travel further afield to seek help.
●       8/10 clients attending IT classes and support report that they’re able to navigate the digital world more competently, improving their ability to access other support, improving communication and connections with their family and friends.
●       Numerous studies highlight the positive effects of volunteering on individuals and communities. Volunteering is linked to lower rates of depression and increased life satisfaction among older adults. Volunteering at Core is an essential part of the service we provide, with 85% of volunteers remaining with us for over a year. Volunteers are trained in mental health first aid, food hygiene, and community development, furthering their personal growth while strengthening the capacity of the local community. Their feedback is consistently positive as they can see the power of the work that we all do on a daily basis. “Core has not only changed my life, but I can see the good impact it has on other people all the time”
●       Help completing difficult forms to access financial and other entitlements means they are filled in more accurately than individuals attempting on their own. Over 70% of applications are successful with our support. Our follow-up calls show us that people feel more independent and less of a burden on their busy families. Many express that they feel more empowered and confident to attempt to overcome problems themselves in the future and some go on to join our IT courses to build their skills further.
●       Council Outreach weekly clinics are consistently fully booked with 85% reporting their issue resolved or part resolved.
●       Citizen’s Advice weekly sessions are consistently oversubscribed with 80% of users stating overall satisfaction with their visit
●       Core’s food pantry has retained 75% of its original client base and provided over 3800 boxes of food in the last 2 years not only helping families with the cost of living crisis but preventing food waste.
 
Case Study. Angie first attended Core seeking help with a difficult form.  After becoming tearful and admitting to feeling low and struggling with her mental health, we offered emotional support. We encouraged Angie to join our knit and natter group. Initially she was very reluctant, but our befriending volunteer built a relationship with her and eventually Angie felt comfortable to attend. Since then, she has gone from strength to strength and has even taught several people in the community how to crochet. Moreover, Angie has completed an IT course and attended the Christmas Party. The tangible impact on Angie’s wellbeing and overall improved mental health is immeasurable and we were delighted when she announced that she has booked a trip to Scotland this year to visit her brother. We believe that without the support from Core, Angie would not have the confidence and resilience to do something so positive for herself.
Core’s monitoring and evaluation ensures Core measures/records all activities; ensures activities are evaluated to enable services to be adapted to best meet client needs; and enables us to report back to funders on impact/outcomes. We use the following methodologies:
●       Surveys/Feedback: We regularly gather feedback from our community members to understand their needs, satisfaction levels, and areas for improvement e.g. a recent survey showed 99% of 125 users surveyed said their overall wellbeing had improved since visiting
●       Qualitative data-surveys asking clients how they feel before/after interventions
●       Data Collection: tracking quantitative data such as the number of individuals served, types of services provided and measurable outcomes e.g oversubscribed Strong and Steady/mobility intervention.
●       Case Studies: We examine individual cases to understand the impact of interventions on specific people, highlighting success stories and identifying challenges.
●       Community Engagement: regularly engaging with our community through meetings, focus groups and forums to keep us informed about evolving needs and opinions on our services
●       Collaboration with Partners: We’ve built excellent links with other organisations/ government agencies/voluntary groups sharing information and resources. We work together and review the overall impact of community initiatives e.g. feedback from Health and Wellbeing event attended by 400 people
●       Trustee/volunteer training and reviews: We review and evaluate programs and services to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement
By employing a combination of these methods, Core has a comprehensive understanding of its impact. We can assess the effectiveness of all our initiatives, making informed decisions to better meet the needs of the vulnerable people we serve. For us, success is all about impacting positively on the lives of the people we support, and the measures we have set out above ensure that we understand how effectively we are doing that.
 
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
 
At Core, by the very nature of what we do, we deeply value every individual. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) is central to everything we do and we believe that all people, regardless of their background, deserve access to support, resources, and opportunities in a safe and welcoming environment. We know what it takes sometimes for someone to have the courage to walk through the door and seek help and the last thing we would ever consider would be to turn them away - kindness and acceptance are in our DNA! We understand the concept of intersectionality – that people experience discrimination and oppression in multiple and often overlapping ways. We recognise that each person’s experiences are unique and influenced by a range of factors, including but not limited to gender, race, age, class, sexual orientation, physical ability, and more. At Core, we consider all the various aspects of identity that can marginalise people and we actively work to address these barriers through our services, programs, and practices.
The Core Centre is a truly inclusive community hub that is open to all. Our central location in Calverton, Nottinghamshire, offers easy access with free parking and either free or very low-cost services. We do not means-test or restrict any of our services or activities based on income, identity, or background. Whether people come to us for health support, social activities, or advice, we aim to ensure that all services are accessible and welcoming. This open, non-judgmental approach is designed to help individuals from all walks of life feel comfortable and valued. We provide a safe space where people feel they belong and where they can connect with others across cultures and backgrounds.
In line with our commitment to inclusivity, we reduce barriers to participation by offering a friendly, walk-in model where no appointment is necessary. This "open door" approach removes the need for individuals to navigate complex systems to access support. We consistently seek feedback from those who use our services and encourage them to voice their opinions on all aspects of our work. This ensures that people feel heard, valued, and able to contribute to decision-making, helping us continuously improve and adapt to the needs of our diverse community.
Case Study. Neda came to The Core Centre during a tough time, struggling with bills and social isolation as a single parent with limited English. After building a relationship with Neda, we suggested she did some volunteering with us to build her confidence, introduce her to new people, and give her opportunities to practice English. The Core Centre’s support, including referrals for CV development and an ESOL course, empowered Neda to regain a sense of purpose. Volunteering not only helped her integrate into the community but also boosted her skills, paving the way for her to successfully gain part-time work. Neda now feels more confident, connected, and hopeful about her future, having gained both personal and practical skills through the charity’s holistic support.
At Core, we actively seek opportunities to celebrate diversity and engage with different cultural groups. For example, we’ve participated in the Ukrainian Society Meal, bringing together trustees, volunteers, and members of the local community to share food and conversation. We’ve also implemented a mobility scooter group to ensure that those with mobility challenges can engage with our services. Core sometimes works with refugees who have been rehomed locally, helping them access services and settle positively into their local community. Our food pantry is another example of how we celebrate diversity, as we aim to share recipes from around the world, promoting cultural exchange and inclusivity. Additionally, we host a free activity and lunch day for parents and children on free school meals in partnership with the Gedling Play Forum, reinforcing our commitment to supporting families from all backgrounds.
Partnerships
Core’s partnerships enhance service delivery, promote efficiency, and strengthen our ability to meet the needs of the local community. We work closely with many local, regional, and national partners, each of whom contributes to the success of our community-driven initiatives. We can bring partner services to our clients in a comfortable familiar environment.
Our most long-standing partnership with Gedling Borough Council has led to the creation of a monthly drop-in clinic, which has now been expanded to a weekly service. This increased capacity enables Core to offer critical support, including food vouchers, hardship payments, cost of living assistance, and other essential services. Our close working relationship is reflected in our involvement in the Partnership Group consulting on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, where we represent the Voluntary and Community Sector. We have also been invited to consult on how the voluntary sector can be better represented across Gedling.
Citizen’s Advice hold weekly virtual appointments at Core. These sessions are always fully booked, and we have requested an increase in their presence to meet the growing demand for advice and support. This collaboration helps us support individuals in need of legal, financial, and housing advice, crucial in the current cost-of-living crisis. Core has forged strong ties with Calverton GP Surgery, and receive referrals through social prescribing, enabling individuals to engage in health and social activities. This partnership has allowed us to offer health-related events, such as blood pressure and diabetes checks, at local community events. Furthermore, we work with the GPs to host joint health events, which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to improving the physical and mental well-being of our community.
We partner with Hear Together, providing a free monthly hearing aid check clinic at Core. This is vital for elderly residents who struggle with mobility and cannot easily travel to Nottingham. Similarly, ClearWax Ear Wax Removal Solutions collaborate with us to offer regular ear care clinics, ensuring that individuals with hearing issues, often exacerbated by age, can access affordable services locally.
Our ongoing partnership with Trussell Trust Arnold Food Bank has proven invaluable, especially in the face of rising demand for food support. Our volunteers regularly collect and deliver food parcels to individuals in need. In line with this, our Food Pantry Project collaborates with FairShare and Family Action, providing low-cost, healthy food options while tackling food waste.
We are committed to supporting vulnerable individuals during winter, operating a warm hub and distributing warm packs, in partnership with National Grid. Our growing relationships with local businesses, eg Land Smith Solicitors, Bargain Girls, The Springwater Golf Club, Rhubarbs Cafe, help us raise awareness of our work and secure valuable donations. Partnerships with organisations like Age UK, Nottingham Carers, Futures, and DWP ensure that Core remains at the forefront of addressing the needs of the community and support our ability to provide vital services, including CV writing, job-seeking advice, and support for carers. At Core, we also believe in the power of local collaboration, working with community groups like St John Ambulance, The Working Men’s Club, and Bags of Blessings, Calverton Theatre Group, to address social isolation and support individuals in need. Through these relationships, we bring together diverse groups, providing a strong support network for those who need it most. Our partnerships extend to local government and schools, eg working to promote volunteer opportunities and advertise our services. We actively participate in various community forums, such as the Arnold and Carlton Community Engagement Group and Gedling Seniors Network, ensuring we are always in tune with the evolving needs of the community.
In conclusion, Core is deeply rooted in our local community and committed to working collaboratively with a wide range of partners. These collaborations not only make our work more efficient, but they also help us build a resilient and inclusive community, aligning with Garfield Weston Foundation’s commitment to supporting organisations that drive positive change and foster community cohesion.
Our People
Core is led by a dedicated and passionate team, with both managers and trustees possessing extensive experience and a deep commitment to improving the lives of local people. Our small team includes Sam, a Calverton resident who has been connected to Core for over 20 years. With a strong background in customer service, sales, and volunteer management, Sam brings a wealth of experience in team leadership and charity work. Her motivation to serve her community and her drive to continuously improve Core's offerings make her an invaluable leader. Becky, also a long-term member of the Core community, has a background in education and senior leadership. As an ex primary school teacher, Becky brings creative thinking and innovative ideas to Core. Her passion for community engagement, paired with her practical experience, ensures that Core’s services evolve to meet the changing needs of the community. Core’s trustees, a diverse and committed group of eight, play a key role in the charity’s success. They are hands-on volunteers, leading activities like food pantry management, teaching bobbin lace, and offering support with difficult forms and befriending. Their experience and insight guide Core’s strategy, ensuring we remain deeply connected to our community and also aligned with the values of supporting skilled, passionate leadership.
Our Finances
 We have a robust plan in place to fund our work. Core was for many years dependent almost entirely on the National Lottery for funding. The current managers took over in January 2021 and immediately recognised this over-dependence on one funding source as a concern. The current Lottery funding was coming to an end, and following discussions, National Lottery agreed a further year’s funding at 100% for 2022/23, and also awarded additional development funding to enable the new managers to explore other funding opportunities and develop their skills in securing funding. This has been successfully achieved over the last 2 years, with the Lottery agreeing a further 4 year bid covering 2023/2024 to 2026/2027. This tranche of funding was based on a taper approach to allow us time to secure other funding, resulting overall in National Lottery now providing under 50% of our funding. We are confident this is the appropriate level of funding for the funders to provide longer-term support for us on a sustainable basis, and we intend on applying for a further 4 years to meet 40-50% of our annual costs from 2027 onwards.
We developed a reserves strategy and now aim to hold reserves of 6-12 months of running costs, ensuring that any shortfalls in funding do not immediately threaten the survival of Core. We now plan our finances on a longer-term basis, typically producing 2-3 year forward budgets to enable us to work on any shortfalls in plenty of time, and if necessary to scale our services.
Having successfully diversified our income sources, we now operate through a ‘cocktail’ of funding. To keep our services delivering effectively, we need to secure approximately £100-110k each year. Additional short term projects often increase our costs, but these come with corresponding income (eg Lottery Lunch Club). Funding sources inevitably vary each year, but an approximate breakdown is as follows -
-National Lottery - our main funder, providing approx 40% of our annual funding currently.
-Grants. We have significantly improved our ability to apply for funding from trusts and charitable foundations, and from local government. Recent successes include Sport England, Coalfields Regeneration, Nottinghamshire County Council, Gedling District Council, Jigsaw Homes, Severn Trent Water, National Grid, Masons Charitable Trust, Co-Op Community Fund, Versus Arthritis.
Grants from sources such as these now account for approx 35% of our annual funding. We aim to fill the gaps shown in the 2 year budget enclosed primarily through grant applications.
-Sales. We secure small contributions from clients when they participate in activities. eg clients may pay £2-3 to take part in classes or groups, and £4 towards our lunch club. We always ensure that these charges are very affordable, and have arrangements to ensure that we can sensitively ensure that people who cannot afford to pay are able to attend for free. We never want our charges to be a barrier. We secure around 15% of our funding in this way.
-Fundraising. We hold events and also try to attract funding from local businesses and individuals who support our work. We have improved our ability to do this over the last couple of years and now secure around 8% of our funding through donations and events.
-The remaining funding (approximately 2%) comes from small contributions from partners and from interest earned on our reserves.
Our local community supports our work, and we can demonstrate this in several ways - from the take-up and participation in our activities and everything we do, through to the income we earn from our clients and our local partners. Our clients value what we do and those who can afford to are more than willing to pay a small contribution, usually £2-3. These contributions add up to a valuable income stream for us. Our local partners, including businesses, councillors, and the Parish, District and County Councils all provide financial support to us. There are no other local organisations who do what we do, and Core is very much valued by clients, partners, local government and funding bodies.
Case Study Angie. Angie first attended Core seeking help with a difficult from.  After becoming tearful and admittedly feeling low and struggling with her mental health, we offered Angie some emotional support. We encouraged Angie to return and join our craft group. Initially she was very reluctant, but our befriending volunteer began to build a relationship with her and eventually Angie felt more comfortable to attend. Since then, she has gone from strength to strength and has even taught several people in the community how to rag rug. Moreover, Angie has completed an IT course and attended the Christmas Party. The tangible impact on Angie’s wellbeing and overall improved mental health is immeasurable and we were delighted when she announced that she has booked a trip to Wales this year to visit her cousin. We believe that without the support from Core, Angie would not have the confidence and resilience to do something so positive for herself.
Core is well respected and a valuable community hub for Calverton and the surrounding areas with over 15000 interactions each year, increasing access to recreational, wellbeing and social activities for approx. 1800 people yearly. 90% of users to Core access more than one service at Core and 55% more than 4 services. 99 % said their overall wellbeing had improved since visiting Core. Research indicates that individuals benefit from multiple interventions when building a support network. Studies show that combining various forms of support such as therapy, community involvement, and social connections, enhances overall wellbeing and resilience. Diverse interventions address different aspects of a person’s life, fostering a more comprehensive and robust support system.
Core have reduced social isolation through befriending activities for over 250 people each year. Studies show that people engaged with community hubs report a 30% improvement in perceived support networks. We know that many of our users describe us as a “life line” and in a recent survey 139 out of 146 clients said that there wasn’t anywhere else in their local community that provides the services Core offers.
On average 60 people a week access craft or creative activities at Core – people have a purpose to come out, make meaningful friendships and feel more positive about life reducing the sense of social isolation which leads to mental health problems. A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that individuals who engage in creative activities, including crafting, reported higher levels of positive emotions and increased social wellbeing. Over 90% of craft group members to Core are regular attendees and many state it is their main social activity of the week.
Computers for beginners and mobile phone/lap top one to one help, have improved digital access through IT training for over 164 people each year. A 2019 survey by XYZ Research found that 80 % of participants report an increased sense of belonging and connection after engaging in IT training.
Case Study Ivy. One simple but powerful example at Core is Ivy. Ivy attends our chair based exercise groups but noticed that we also helped with IT. She has now learned how to use her mobile phone and can access WhatsApp allowing her to regularly keep in touch with friends and family. “It’s brilliant, I can talk to them anytime now for free, especially when I have a problem”
Core have increased access to educational classes and training courses for well over 80 people this year. 91% of users surveyed at Core said they had found their course useful. A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology indicate that educational experiences contribute to increased problem solving abilities and sense of empowerment fostering greater independence. Acquiring new knowledge and capabilities often leads to a heightened sense of autonomy and the capacity to navigate independently.
 
Core signposted/problem solved 960 general service enquiries last year. Core staff and volunteers helped 96 people a year complete difficult forms e.g. attendance allowance, blue badge disability, housing issues etc. Studies reveal that individuals who actively sought help when facing challenges exhibited a 40% increase in resilience over time compared to those who did not seek help. At Core, 192 people have been referred to Citizen’s Advice, either accessing a full “virtual” appointment or phone call – local people don’t have to wait long for an appointment and receive expert feedback in a safe space. 85% of all CA users at Core state that the service was very helpful to them. Citizen’s Advice’s own report highlights the mental health benefits of their services. At Core, we know that helping people with a problem helps them feel more empowered to make positive steps in helping themselves and research has proven that there is a direct correlation between seeking help for problems and the development of coping mechanisms suggesting that getting support enhances an individuals over all independence and wellbeing.
Core have increased and sustained volunteering opportunities for over 30 people each year. 90% of our volunteers have been with us for over 18 months and show an immense loyalty and dedication to Core. Numerous studies highlight the positive effects of volunteering on individuals and communities. For instance, one report found that volunteering is linked to lower rates of depression and increased life satisfaction among older adults.
Core provides health based activities to improve mobility and strength including Specialist Falls Prevention Training weekly, twice weekly chair based exercise, walking group and bowling. Research proves that such activities enhance muscle strength, balance and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls and promoting independence. Recent feedback from Core’s Falls Prevention group shows that 77% of the group say they feel stronger, have better balance and would know how to get up from the floor safely.
Case Study: Esther has Parkinson’s disease and finds it difficult to keep her hearing aids clean or to travel to get help or collect batteries. Core are the only collection point for batteries locally and we regularly maintain her hearing aid when she attends our Falls Prevention class. Esther struggles with her condition and Core staff and volunteers offer her emotional support. One of the highlights of our Christmas party this year, was to see Esther get up and dance. This would never have been possible before she came to Core.
Core helps 500 people annually with hearing loss be it for Ear wax removal, hearing aid battery collection or hearing aid servicing – local people save time and travel money as well as benefit from good ear health. Studies prove that improved hearing impacts relationships, cognitive function and emotional health, contributing to a better quality of life for individuals dealing with impaired hearing.
Case Study:  Core first met friends Mabel and Mave whilst delivering a community Winter Warmers project in the local shopping precinct. Despite them appearing to be grumpy, they were in fact a comedy duo! The duo attended Core to collect their warm pack and have not looked back since. Both women have had very difficult times in their lives, losing partners and children and both now live alone, Mave confessing to seeing no one for days on end. They state that they love coming to Core and have accessed many of our services including: food pantry, warm packs, tea and toast Tuesdays, Citizen’s Advice and Cost of Living Event Day where they learned how to save money on their bills. Although we like to feel we have impacted very positively on their lives, they also give back to us, raising the mood with good fun and humour and helping others feel welcome when they first encounter Core. The Core Centre charity’s objectives are to promote well-being, relieve mental health problems and isolation and loneliness, relieve poverty, advance education, training and employment opportunities and assist in the provision of any services to residents in Calverton, Woodborough, Oxton, Epperstone, Gonalston, Lowdham, and other nearby communities. Most recently, the charity has sought to help the community combat the effects of the “Cost of Living Crisis”
Core’s purpose is to support wellbeing, reduce isolation and loneliness and make people feel valued and supported within their community - a rural area with few other sources of support.
 
Gedling, according to ONS data, has below-average levels of life satisfaction and happiness, alongside a high rate for anxiety. Every endeavour undertaken by Core serves to alleviate anxiety, mitigate isolation and loneliness, and infuse joy into the community. For instance, two new members recently joined our bowling/social eating group. Their daughter, who visited from Sheffield, went out of her way to meet us and express her gratitude for what we do for local people as she had noticed a massive improvement in her mum, who has Alzheimer's', "She remembers conversations and people and says Core is the highlight of her week".  This anecdote exemplifies just one of many instances where individuals derive profound benefits from Core, often circumventing the need for intervention from mental health services or the NHS.
 
Core serves as a first point of contact—a grassroots organisation staffed by locals and volunteers who understand the needs of their community. Our impact on people's lives is tangible, as we offer a secure, nurturing space where individuals can access information, services, and activities. Core serves as an invaluable route to market for various delivery partners to reach out to marginalised groups, offering a platform to deliver services directly to people. For instance, Gedling Borough Council now utilises Core to host a weekly outreach clinic, which consistently draws a full attendance. Through discussions with our users, feedback from community groups and social media, we have identified that there is a community need for more social eating opportunities. We have therefore started a monthly lunch club project which offers a hot 2 course meal for £5. We have currently run 4 extremely successful lunch clubs for up to 65 local people, many of whom would not eat with others that week. Our survey found that 73% of attendees said it helped them get out the house, feeling less lonely. Our motto is... “Tastes better Together” This not only provides a reason for people to come together, alleviating loneliness and isolation but it leads to more engagement with all our other services, allowing us to take a holistic, whole person approach, meaning that we can build relationship and trust. From engaging with just one of our services, individuals often find assistance in resolving other issues, thereby averting the escalation of their problems and challenges. From a recent survey we know that 55% of our users go on to access 4 or more of our services.
 
Many individuals describe Core as a lifeline. Once people become engaged with us, they often acquire new skills, forge friendships, or find additional sources of assistance. One woman serves as a remarkable example of this, as expressed in her feedback: "What a godsend this place is!!! After my husband's passing, I relocated to Calverton, where my only family connection was my brother. I was a stranger to everyone else. Discovering Core through the local newsletter was a turning point. I enrolled in the exercise classes held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, took advantage of the computer classes, and booked a Citizens' Advice appointment. Through these activities, I've formed numerous friendships. The staff are exceptional; their willingness to help knows no bounds. I wholeheartedly recommend Core to anyone seeking support. I feel immensely fortunate to have access to these activities. Core truly is a wonderful place. Thank you!"
 
At Core, we prioritise listening to the local community—empowering individuals to shape our initiatives. For instance, our table tennis group emerged due to regular requests from locals and the foresight of one of our volunteers, and it has since become a well-attended club. Additionally, we remain responsive to pressing national issues. For instance, in response to the cost of living crisis, we increased our Food Pantry box offering, organised distribution of warm packs and are starting a two course meal/social eating lunch club monthly. With over 27 years of supporting the local community, the demand for our services has never been higher.
 
To ensure we remain in touch with local needs, we document daily enquiries, group activities, and trends. This data helps us refine our understanding of the community we serve. We also monitor social media comments for insights into relevant and valuable offerings. Our methods include simple survey sheets, course feedback, user and stakeholder focus groups, and a feedback book that encourages user suggestions. Furthermore, we analyse national data sources, such as ONS statistics, to gain broader insights. Regular network forums provide opportunities to gather community input and align with government and Local Authorities' strategies and policies.
A survey conducted over a six-week period with 146 participants, responses were gathered on a scale of 1 to 5:
 
- Do you feel more confident since attending Core?
    - 1 – 0
    - 2 – 0
    - 3 – 9
    - 4 – 44
    - 5 – 102
 
- Have you made new friends as a result of visiting Core?
    - 1 – 0
    - 2 – 0
    - 3 – 2
    - 4 – 40
    - 5 – 106
 
When asked if there are other local community organisations offering services similar to Core's, only seven respondents answered positively, indicating the unique value Core provides. Our aim is to offer services either free or at minimal cost, often through partnerships with facilitators who share this commitment.
Presently, Core's funding primarily comes from the National Lottery, utilising a tapered funding model. We are tasked with bridging the funding gap ourselves, which necessitates securing grants and organising fundraising activities. These grants are vital for sustaining our invaluable work in the community.
 
Please describe the project / activities that you intend to carry out*
Core is a well-established Community Hub, a unique haven of kindness and compassion, providing practical support for local people in need of help.
We are a small charity that makes a huge positive impact on local people’s lives. Our 3 staff and 30+ volunteers help Core offer over 40 different services, activities and classes, working with numerous partners throughout Nottinghamshire. These include GBC, NCC, Hear Together Charity, Citizens Advice, Green Doctor energy advice, Trussell Trust, National Grid, Calverton Parish Council ,St Johns Ambulance, Carers Association, Age UK, StandGuide, Inspire etc
As part of our services, we provide classes including crafts such as bobbin lace, card-making, knit and natter and rag rugging. Also, activities to improve health including chair-based exercise, fall prevention, meditation and relaxation sessions, ear wax removal, hearing aid clinic, table tennis; and a range of other much-needed services delivered by ourselves and partners(Gedling borough Council Outreach Clinic weekly) including help filling in complicated forms like bus pass, driving licence, blue badge, attendance allowance, support to use phones and other devices, energy-saving and debt advice. We also provide help with CVs, job seeking and confidence building. Core now runs a weekly social eating project including carpet bowls and bingo and we hold a weekly Food Pantry which offers £15/20 boxes of food for £3.50. We are a registered foodbank referral point and have noted a big increase in uptake. Our latest venture involves providing a monthly lunch club offering a hot two course meal for £5 to around 65 local people. As part of this meal, we put on speakers who can inform diners of how to access all sorts of help which they might not know about. Many live alone and it is a way to connect, eat together and make friends. 
Our project is ongoing and we would be looking for a contribution to help support us for 12 months.
 
Increasing volunteering opportunities that enable more vulnerable residents to be supported: We currently have a volunteer force of approximately 30-40 individuals and we are taking on more volunteers to run our new lunch club. Our services and activities are crafted and delivered by locals from all walks and backgrounds and all our activity leaders and volunteers come from the surrounding community. We know that volunteering has a massive positive impact on the individual themselves. Take, for instance, a lady who initially began volunteering with us to help with teas and coffees. She had recently been made unemployed and expressed that she had been struggling with her mental health after a traumatic event at work. After a short period of time, her self-esteem and sparkle emerged and she offered to run a new group for Core, mainly aimed at men, playing 5s and 3s or crib. This is new to Core and initial signs are very positive with over 10 weekly players already. Moreover, our new volunteer has grown in confidence and outlook, helping her regain a sense of purpose and usefulness.
We approach recruitment of volunteers by advertising, conducting interviews, and assigning roles based on individuals' skill sets and personalities. Our comprehensive induction program covers essential topics like safeguarding, health and safety, and an overview of Core's mission. We also offer specialised accreditation training, such as food hygiene, bereavement counselling, and carers' advocacy. It works both ways—we ensure that the partnership aligns not only with Core's needs but also with the volunteer's aspirations. Regular training and social events provide volunteers with platforms to offer feedback and ideas.  Recently, when we identified that we wanted to start a table tennis group, one of our trustee-volunteers eagerly stepped forward, putting us in contact with her ex table tennis league friend, who now runs our very successful table tennis group. When coordinating volunteers and assigning roles, we approach each individual's strengths and weaknesses with sensitivity. Not all roles suit everyone, and finding the right fit requires a delicate balance. We collaborate with volunteers to identify their motivations and strengths, recognising that this process is an art form with significant rewards.
 
Enables Nottinghamshire residents to contribute to social and cultural opportunities
Our Community members love to help out on simple appeals such entering a poetry competition in conjunction with the library, collecting toys for vulnerable children or recycle plastic containers to raise money for Macmillan's or knitting squares for Inspire College for blankets. These projects may sound small, but they give many people an honourable purpose, a valuable way to use their time and we help facilitate this through our appeals. We hold Christmas Party events (120 attendees), jubilee and coronation coffee mornings (60 at each). We help signpost and administer to local bus trips in conjunction with other organisations helping people access exciting destinations. Our extensive network of partnerships not only connect partners with the community but also extends our own reach by enabling us to offer services we could not directly deliver ourselves.
 
Encourages innovation to strengthen communities and support vulnerable residents, for example projects could include tackling digital exclusion, good neighbourhood schemes, dementia friendly communities, food / lunch clubs etc:
 
Core supports vulnerable residents through many of its activities including: helping 96 people yearly to fill in complicated forms like bus pass, driving licence, blue badge, attendance allowance. Many older people struggle with IT and we support 164 people a year to access their own phones and other devices. We do this by using one to one sessions which we find is a more powerful and useful way to do educate. 96 people a year receive access to local employment support either through Core volunteers or specialist support and advice such as Stand Guide. Local job seekers then feel confident to approach Core in the first instance in order to take the right step in helping them to successfully find a job. This job club offers help with CVs, job seeking and confidence building.
 
Core now runs a weekly social eating project including carpet bowls and bingo attended by between 15-20 people each week. We have started a monthly 2 course hot meal social eating project with up to 65 people attending monthly. We also hold a weekly Food Pantry which offers £15/20 boxes of food for £3.50 to around 45 families currently. We are a registered foodbank referral point and have noted a big increase in uptake during the cost of living crisis. 144 referrals a year are made to the local food bank and local people feel supported through difficult times. Core makes 200 appointments a year for our Ear wax removal clinic, meaning that local people save time and travel money, as well as benefit from good ear health. 192 people were referred to Citizen’s Advice last year, either accessing a full “virtual” appointment or phone call. This means local people don’t have to wait long for an appointment and receive expert feedback in a safe space. The vast majority of people express that they find this service very helpful. Core facilitates 120 appointments a year for local people to have their hearing aids serviced free of charge – users feel more confident in their hearing, raising overall well-being and they can attend locally. 12 people have been referred for Debt Advice, reducing worry and anxiety and helps people begin to make positive changes preventing further problems. 24 people a year are given initial free “Family” advice from a local solicitor – this service reduces anxiety amongst those dealing with family crisis, helping them make the first steps towards improving their situation
 
Encourages local networks where people help themselves and each other to be resilient, neighbourly and safe
Core works in conjunction with many local partners. We have an excellent collaboration with the working man's club where we are based, sharing events and promoting services amongst all our users. We hold joint events with the churches, theatre group, local charities like Bags of Blessings or knitting scarves for Ukraine or hearts from Haywood House. We attend community events like the village get together and Christmas light switch on. Core holds cost of living events, talks on power of attorney, carers events, falls prevention help etc. We are currently in talks with Nottingham Police, who have expressed a wish to hold community sessions at Core regularly to keep locals updates and alleviate any concerns they may have. Many of our class attendees break off and form separate friendship groups, looking out for and supporting one another.
Helps to address climate and environmental change. The Core Centre offers essential local services within a rural setting, alleviating the need for extensive travel. This significance was amplified during the pandemic, especially with the rise of remote work and the immediate demand for access to welfare advice, hearing aid batteries, and wellbeing services not typically available through the GP or other far away organisations. These services are conveniently situated at the Core Centre, which is located on the main bus route.
The Core Centre organises local litter picking events in conjunction with Gedling Borough Council. Over Christmas we also collected over 300 plastic tub containers for recycling, organised by our “green champion” trustee.
Moreover, we have implemented an energy-saving policy for the rooms we rent, ensuring that all staff and volunteers adhere to various procedures aimed at daily energy conservation. This includes practices such as turning off unnecessary lights and heating, maintaining heating only in occupied areas, and keeping doors closed when not in use.
Our close-knit community is well-informed about our crafting activities and generously donates resources such as wool, newspapers, crafting machines, walking aids, books, promoting upcycling and recycling as well as waste prevention.
Additionally, our Food Pantry initiative utilises food nearing its expiration date, thereby preventing food waste and offering affordable food options within walking distance for the community. This project not only addresses food insecurity but also has significant environmental benefits by diverting food from landfills.
We were grateful to receive another £10k grant from National Grid last winter to educate people on reducing energy usage and costs and providing warm packs. Our energy advice service further assists community members in adopting better energy consumption habits, contributing positively to environmental conservation efforts. Furthermore, we are proud to be registered as a warm bank, providing essential support to those in need during colder months.
Helps to improve mental health. At the Core Centre, we are guided by four overarching principles that underpin all our work: addressing loneliness and isolation, promoting physical and mental well-being, offering advice and guidance, and providing education and support. Our activities are designed to have a positive impact across these areas, with some programs specifically tailored to address certain needs.
For instance, our craft and creative activities attract an average of 60 participants per week. Engaging in these activities not only provides individuals with a meaningful outlet but also fosters new friendships and a more positive outlook on life. By combating social isolation, we effectively mitigate the risk of mental health issues. Additionally, our staff are equipped with mental health first aid training, enabling them to offer support and assistance when needed.
Many of our services and activities serve as preventative measures, reducing the necessity for individuals to seek further intervention from mental health services. Through offering interaction, learning, companionship, and a sense of purpose, we contribute to the overall well-being of our community members, helping them lead healthier and happier lives.
Helps to improve physical health. The Core Centre offers specialised Strong and Steady sessions on a weekly basis to a group of 15-20 individuals experiencing mobility challenges and helping to prevent falls. On average, this results in savings of £218 in primary, secondary, and social care costs per participant, along with an additional £285 improvement in quality of life per participant, totalling a benefit of £503 per participant. This group is so popular that we have a waiting list and are hoping to start a second weekly group.
Additionally, Core hosts two chair-based exercise groups each week, with 20-25 attendees per session. It is heart-warming to witness some of these participants not only join but also create new friendship groups who meet outside of Core now socially.
We now run a popular table tennis group, again benefiting people in bending, moving and stretching whilst having fun. Our line dancing group has gone from strength to strength with a beginners, intermediate and advanced sessions.
Helps to reduce loneliness. Reducing loneliness is a central aspect of our mission. We extend an open invitation for a friendly cup of tea and conversation to anyone, anytime. Additionally, we host a special games coffee morning and tea and toast session each week, where attendees can enjoy socialising with our befriending volunteers. Many of our weekly activities, whether it's exercising, knitting, or other pursuits, emphasise the importance of coming together over a cup of tea and engaging in meaningful conversation afterward.
Improves access to existing community-based services for the most vulnerable residents. Core serves as the initial point of contact for individuals seeking assistance.192 people were referred to Citizen's Advice last year, where they accessed either full "virtual" appointments or phone consultations promptly. This ensures that local residents don't have to endure long waits for appointments and can receive expert advice in a secure environment. The overwhelming majority of individuals express gratitude for this service, finding it immensely beneficial.
Moreover, 204 individuals participate in educational classes and training sessions at Core. These opportunities not only help them build confidence in acquiring new skills but also often lead them to explore other services we offer, enhancing their overall experience.
Additionally, 288 people annually access Gedling Borough Council Outreach services at Core. This accessible support system empowers individuals to seek help confidently without the need for extensive travel. Core staff provide valuable assistance in navigating their issues, guiding them through the necessary steps to address their concerns effectively.
All these services allow us to build trust with individuals often forging a relationship where we can go on to offer other means of support.
One of Core's guiding principles is, "If we can't help, we'll find someone who can!" Last year, we facilitated over 15,000 interactions, addressing numerous inquiries for assistance. We frequently connect individuals with various agencies and contacts to ensure they receive the support they need. These interactions often result in access to vital services and support, ultimately alleviating the strain on public services and enhancing the overall health and well-being of the community.
Provides support to communities of interest, for example rural communities or refugees. Core are presented with all sorts of problems and never turn anyone away. Whilst Core don’t specifically target working with refugees, we believe that helping families resettle will be something Core increasingly helps with as more families come to this area. Recently we have helped a refugee family of 5 integrate into the local community. Core have: registered the children for school, registered the family for the local GP and dentist, organised food parcels, sourced and put the family in touch with a qualified local volunteer who is giving them free English language lessons. We have also offered them emotional support, organised an inspection of their rented property and organised cost of living support with GBC. Our unlimited advice and help about the local area has helped them thrive and settle.





Local Context and Need
-----------------------
Calverton ward experiences above-average levels of community need. According to the Community Needs Index, it ranks 5,501 nationally, indicating higher deprivation compared to Nottinghamshire and England overall. Food insecurity is a significant issue, with Calverton scoring 12,421 on the Priority Places for Food Index – worse than county and national averages. Despite this, funding per head from major grant funders is markedly lower than elsewhere in the county or country.

Our location in a rural setting with limited alternative services means Core is often the only place locally where residents can access multiple forms of support under one roof. Our partnerships with health services, local government, and voluntary organisations ensure that people can get help quickly, without the delays and travel often associated with rural living.

Funding and Sustainability
---------------------------
Core’s funding model is diversified, with approximately 40% from the National Lottery, 35% from charitable trusts and foundations, 15% from low-cost participant contributions, and 8% from fundraising. We maintain financial resilience through forward budget planning and a reserves strategy, ensuring continuity of service for our community.

Conclusion
----------
Support for The Core Centre directly translates into improved lives: reduced loneliness, better health outcomes, stronger community ties, and empowered individuals. In a village facing significant challenges around isolation, health, and poverty, Core is a beacon of kindness, inclusion, and resilience.