Alex Munro, Rector, St Peter’s West Molesey
We have a really good working relationship with Elmbridge Council. Over the last few years, they have sought to work with community partners like us. They really want to hear what support residents need and to work with community partners to shape that support.
Rob Mills, Chief Executive, Walton Charity
Walton Charity provides holistic support to residents from across Elmbridge, including through grants, housing, community buildings and our green spaces. The cost-of-living crisis has meant that many are now struggling financially, and demand for our services, and that of many of our partners, has been rising. In the last year alone our foodbanks fed over 5,300 local people—the highest number on record.
Being a local charitable foundation means that our support is led by our community, for our community. We are keen to have as wide a reach as possible within the borough, and continue working with the council to assist those who need it most.
Vicky Zadeh, Founder, Waste to Plate
At Waste to Plate, we’re reimagining the future of food and community. Rooted in sustainability and driven by compassion, our mission is to rescue surplus food and transform it into opportunity, reducing waste, easing the pressure of the cost of living, and nurturing dignity through access and choice.
With the valued support of Elmbridge Borough Council, we’re proud to grow a more connected, resilient borough, one where shared action creates lasting change and everyone has a place at the table.
Sarah Clay, Founder and CEO, Voices of Hope
Voices of Hope is a charity dedicated to supporting the wellbeing, resilience and flourishing of women and children across the borough. Our work focuses on empowering those who are facing isolation, hardship, or the long-term impacts of trauma—through practical support, creative programmes, and community-building initiatives.
In the past year, our partnership with Elmbridge Borough Council, along with other local partners, has enabled us to establish the new Elmbridge Women’s Hub: a safe, welcoming space where women can find connection, access tailored support, and begin to rebuild their lives.
The council has also played a vital role in supporting the expansion of our BRITE Box programme locally, helping families build skills and confidence around healthy cooking and nutrition, especially during a time when the cost-of-living crisis has left many struggling.
We're really grateful for Elmbridge Council's genuine desire to listen to communities, to collaborate with grassroots organisations, and to shape services that meet real needs.
Stuart Selleck, Chair of Trustees, Lower Green Community CIO
“At the Lower Green Community Centre, our dream of creating a welcoming, caring and empowering space for local residents has come to life. We offer a place where people of all ages can drop in for a friendly chat, get involved in activities and receive help and support if needed. Working with local partners including Elmbridge Council we’ve expanded initiatives such as our advice café and community fridge. When times are tough, we want to ensure everyone has a place where they can find friendship, encouragement and the support they need to thrive.
Seeing the Centre grow into such a vital part of Lower Green, and knowing we're helping to build a stronger, more connected community, is deeply rewarding.”
For more information see connected communities