CCF grants bring generations together in Newquay

The Salvation Army in Newquay has been working to reduce social isolationLoneliness, lack of access to human interactions. and build community connections across all age groups in the town.

Through their innovative intergenerational work, they bring people together who wouldn’t normally mix, creating a sense of family and belonging for local residents.

From toddlers learning new skills to adults finding friendship and support, their activities provide a welcoming space where people aged 1 to 84 can share life together.

A grant of £1,500 from the Carew Pole Charitable Trust and £5,000 from the Business Club FundA sum of money made available for grant making, often with specific criteria/conditions. enabled the employment of a part-time intergenerational worker, Jill, who has developed new activities and expanded existing provision.

The funding has supported the growth of the community café, providing opportunities for different agencies and age groups to come together, as well as regular Pasta and Games nights where people share a simple meal and social interaction.

Volunteers work alongside the intergenerational worker to prepare refreshments, play games, and create meaningful connections between generations. Children without grandparents have particularly valued these relationships, while adults teach young people new skills.

One community member shared: “No matter how I’m feeling when I arrive, I always feel better.” Another spoke warmly of their new connections at the Community Café, saying “These people have been hand-picked.”

Social prescribers have been signposting people struggling with anxiety, depression, and isolation to the Salvation Army’s activities, where they find welcome and support. The work has created unexpected connections, with volunteers from the intergenerational activities now helping to develop new provision for young people in the town.

About the funds

The Carew Pole Charitable Trust supports community projects addressing social needs, especially in South East Cornwall. The Trust is interested in supporting projectsA piece of work that delivers an output. that help people in need and aim to have long-term impacts.

Established in 2008 the CCF Business Club is made up of local philanthropic businesses joining together to give back to their communities. Membership fees are pooled and twice annually members are invited to join a panel and decide on where their funding will be allocated. 

If you would like to join these businesses find out how on our Business Giving pages.

To find out more about The Salvation Army Newquay visit nci.org.uk 

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.