In October 2024, we announced our plans to expand support to help more people in need. Currently, Elmbridge community services support 2% of our residents, mainly older adults. However, research indicates that at least 9% of residents need help.
At that time, we invited clients, volunteers, residents and community groups to let us have their initial comments, ideas and feedback on community support in Elmbridge. The results of this survey and our subsequent engagement will feed into the work to reimagine community support in Elmbridge.
In January and February 2025 we are running a detailed engagement programme with community clients, volunteers, residents and community groups.
- Community groups and charities: we are running workshops and gathering their experience, views and priorities. Some of these groups will in turn host their own listening events to gather information from their community on support in Elmbridge.
- Community services clients and volunteers have been invited to workshops in Centres during the week of 20 January allowing us to listen in person to their ideas, feedback and concerns.
- Resident workshops: residents are invited to an interactive workshop in February where you can share your ideas and comments. Pre-booking is requested for these sessions. There are 3 in-person workshops and one online.
- Survey: we have also launched a more detailed survey to capture community views and ideas.