Caradon Fund help fight loneliness in Southeast Cornwall

The Caradon Area Community FundA sum of money made available for grant making, often with specific criteria/conditions. has supported impactful initiatives that strengthen community cohesion, enhance social opportunities for young people, and address mental health needs across Millbrook, Liskeard, and Upton Cross.

ProjectsA piece of work that delivers an output. tackling food security and social isolationLoneliness, lack of access to human interactions. included Café Abundance CiC, which provided weekly pay-as-you-feel meals for 30 people in Millbrook. This initiative not only ensured access to nutritious food but also fostered social connections and strengthened community networks.

Support for young people was evident in St Martin’s Church’s summer programme (pictured), which delivered a range of activities in Liskeard and nearby areas. Events such as a silent disco, park activities, a youth club expansion, a holiday club, and festival games engaged around 200 children and young people, enhancing social inclusion and community participation.

Wellbeing and inclusion were further promoted through Upton Cross PTA’s creation of a sensory garden at Upton Cross Academy. Designed for children with sensory needs, the space provides a calming environment that supports self-regulation, benefiting 100 individuals and improving mental health and learning readiness.

Through these initiatives, the fund has played a vital role in strengthening local communities.

Case Study: Gorfenna CiC

Funding awarded in 2022 enabled Gorfenna to provide vital social interaction, helping to reduce loneliness and improve mental wellbeing. Participants formed new friendships and learned about Emily Hobhouse and the adjacent museum, strengthening their sense of community and connection.

An unexpected outcomeAn outcome is the impact of a change. Outcomes measure impact by how much it affects society. was discovering a South African participant who helped ensure authenticity in the project’s historical elements. Interest in the museum and local history also grew, leading to future collaboration.

One long-term participant, previously isolated for 20 years, gradually built confidence, joining group conversations and even a holiday. Despite setbacks during Covid, he returned, regaining his enthusiasm. Recently diagnosed with lung cancer, he continued attending, and the team supported him throughout. He has now been given the all-clear.

If you are a community group looking for funding, please view our available grants.

If you are looking to support the Cornwall Community Foundation with a donation, go to our online donation page.