2023 update: The 2021/22 Round 1 projects are now all complete, but the organisations and individuals continue to work in the sector, so please use their contact details all listed below to get in touch with any of them.
The 2023/24 Round 2 projects have just been announced, read all about Round 2 here

Gipsy Hill Health & Wellbeing Projects - 2021/22 (subsequently renamed in 2022 - #ThrivingNorwood)
Round 1 funding scheme:
27 applications were received and 13 were awarded funding.
Watch the video below and/or read on to find out more on all of them.
You can also read the Interim Report here (the Final Report will also be published here).
For information on how to apply for round 2, which is currently open, please follow this link
Any questions, please email: thrivingnorwood@norwoodforum.org

Scroll down for information on the following projects:
Fern Lodge Family Gardening run by Nature Vibezzz
Youth Club run by Emmanuel Youth and Community Centre
Homework Club run by Emmanuel Youth and Community Centre
Mental Health First Aider courses run by It's a Playground
Box on the Hill run by Community Sparks Change
Reach Project Community Kitchen run by NCC Equipping People
Over 60's Chair Exercise Class run by Upper Norwood Library Hub
Grow with Gipsy Hill run by South London Botanical Institute
Community Tech Support Drop In run by ClearCommunityWeb
Moving into Wellbeing movement class run by Open Door at Christ Church, Gipsy Hill
Paxton Parket on Gipsy Road run by Friends of Gipsy Hill
The Zine Project run by Paper Stories
The Norwood School Garden Project run by Incredible Edible Lambeth

 
Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Fern Lodge Family Gardening Sessions - run by Nature Vibezzz
What? Open to families with children of all ages, this weekly workshop is all about planting and growing. Finding out how to make compost, decide what to grow and how to make sure your young plants thrive. No experience needed to take part in this entirely free course.
When? Every Saturday, 10am-12noon, 23 April, 30 April, 7 May, 14 May, 21 May, 28 May - then more to follow after half term
Where? Meet outside Fern Lodge Community Hall, SW16 3QX
How to take part? No need to book, just turn up.

Who are Nature Vibezzz?
Nature Vibezzz are a long establised local charity who run acclaimed Forest Schools, Environmental Education and Practical Nature Conservation activities.
Contact: for more information on this project and this organisation: John Cannell and Douglas Saucedo: info@naturevibezzz.org 
Website: naturevibezzz.wordpress.com/2022/04/13/new-nature-vibezzz-saturday-morning-family-gardening-and-forest-school-project/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Naturevibezzz
Twitter: twitter.com/NatureVibezzz
Instagram: www.instagram.com/john_naturevibezzz/

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Youth Club for 10-16yrs - run by Emmanuel Church Youth and Community Centre
What? ECYCC Youth Club is set up for children of our community to get together and socialize by having fun - and also have the opportunity to enrich their life skills. They have 2 consoles, table tennis, a fussball table and and a wide range of other games   
When? Starting 22 April, then every Friday, 7pm-9pm
Where? Emmanuel Centre, 96 Clive Road, SE21 8BU
How to take part? Please complete the online form via the QR code on the poster, email: ecyccwestdulwich@gmail.com, or phone: 07868 643915

Who are Emmanuel Church Youth and Community Centre?
ECYCC is a Church of England church and community centre serving the residents of Gipsy Hill. The Community Centre runs a wide range of community activities including this homework club.
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Reece Anderson-Antrobus ecyccwestdulwich@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Emmanuel-Youth-Community-Centre
Twitter: twitter.com/ecyccSE21

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Homework Club - run by Emmanuel Church Youth and Community Centre
What? Homework club for KS2-KS3. A chance to advance learning, catch up if your children have fallen behind, or just get help with their homework in a friendly learning atmosphere.
When? Starting 22 April, then every Friday, 6pm-7pm
Where? Emmanuel Centre, 96 Clive Road, SE21 8BU
How to take part? Please email: ecyccwestdulwich@gmail.com or phone: 07868 643915

Who are Emmanuel Church Youth and Community Centre?
ECYCC is a Church of England church and community centre serving the residents of Gipsy Hill. The Community Centre runs a wide range of community activities including this homework club.
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Nadeen Collington ecyccwestdulwich@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Emmanuel-Youth-Community-Centre
Twitter: twitter.com/ecyccSE21

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Gipsy Hill Wellbeing Champions - run by It's a Playground
What? An opportunity to become a certified Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) and join a community of locals who want to inspire positive change in Gipsy Hill and support and encourage others. Find out more about what the courses cover here: YOUTH MHFA or ADULT MHFA or open the application form below.
When and Where? 
Adult MHFA(England) Gipsy Hill Wellbeing Champion Course
This face to face course qualifies you as a Mental Health First Aider
Saturday 21 and Saturday 28 May, 9.30am-5pm
Location: Christ Church, Gipsy Hill, 1 Highland Rd, SE19 1DP
Youth MHFA(England) Gipsy Hill Wellbeing Champion Course
This face to face course is for anyone who works with, lives with, or supports young people aged 8-18
Saturday 18 and 25 June, 9.30am-5pm
Location: Upper Norwood Library Hub, 39 Westow Hill, SE19 1TQ
How to take part? Complete this online form or download and print off the same form here

Who is It's a Playground?
"It's a Playground" is a small but mighty local wellbeing consultancy & specialist training company with a whole lot of heart. They use basic, evidence-based wellbeing principles peppered with genuine passion, personal experience and curiosity to empower individuals and support communities and organisations to thrive.
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Laura Rigden info@itsaplayground.org
Website: www.itsaplayground.org/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mindstrengthandconditioning/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/itsaplayground/

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Box of the Hill - run by Community Sparks Change
What? For young people aged 10-16, the aim of the programme is to develop skills and a life long passion for physical activity
When? Starting 1 April, then every Wednesday and Friday, 5pm-7pm
Where? Community Youth Hub, Central Hill Estate, Lunham Road, SE19 1AA
How to take part? No need to book, just turn up, or email csccommunitybox@gmail.com with any questions

Who is Community Sparks Change?
CSC provides high quality sports and health & wellness programmes. We have a team of established coaches that educate and mentour youth through various sports programs. My name is Ryan Spence and I am the founder of CSC with the main aim of combating violent and knife crime, and gang violence.
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Ryan Spence csccommunitybox@gmail.com
Website: communitysparkschange.org/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/communitysparkschange/
Twitter: twitter.com/cscorganisation
Instagram: www.instagram.com/communitysparkschange/
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/company/communitysparkschange/

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Reach Project Community Kitchen - run by NCC Equipping People
What? This project is open to everyone in Gipsy Hill and SE19. It is designed to relieve some of the effects of poverty and hardship among the marginalised and disadvantaged communities and to facilitate a social gathering that contributes to residents emotional and mental health wellness.
The Community Kitchen provides healthy and nutritious food to our visitors, who may not have the resources and time to prepare the food themselves. We also offer emotional support and sense of belonging and community friendship opportunities to those experiencing isolation or loneliness because of poverty or bereavement; we offer them a place where they may relate to others, feel safe and loved.
Additionally, we offer hygiene support by providing packs of self-care items, including toothbrushes, shower gels, sponges, etc. We help to build self-esteem and promote positive mental health by breaking down the barriers of discrimination.
When? First Monday of every month, 6pm-7.30pm, plus other festive celebrations
Where? Community Church Hall, 2 Berridge Road, SE19 1EF
How to take part? No need to book, just turn up.

Who are NCC Equipping People?
Equipping People is a branch of the New Covenant Church UK.
As a Christian organisation, our vision is to communicate the Christian virtue of Love, Christ-likeness, Support and Empowerment. We aim to raise transformational leaders who can significantly impact their communities. 
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Akinola Abiona 07367426439, nccsequippingpeople@outlook.com 
Website: www.nccep.co.uk/ep/reach-projects/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/Reach_Kitchen/

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Over 60's Chair Exercise Drop-In Class - run by Upper Norwood Library Hub
What? Over 60's friendly, seated, drop-in exercise class
When? Starting 12 May, then every Thursday, 11am-12.30pm lunchtime
Where? Upper Norwood Library Hub, 39 Westow Hill, SE19 1TQ
How to take part? No need to book, just turn up

Who is Upper Norwood Library Hub
The Upper Norwood Library Hub (UNLH) is a multi-purpose community and performance arts space with a professional library service delivered by Lambeth Council, co-funded by Croydon Council. They also host the Crystal Palace Library of Things and host & deliver performances, activities and more for the community. UNLH is managed by the Upper Norwood Library Trust, formed in 2012 by residents to take on the running of the library which was under threat of closure.
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Boris Witzenfeld info@unlt.org 
Website: www.uppernorwoodlibraryhub.org/whats-on-background/chair-exercise-class 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/UpperNorLibHub/
Twitter: twitter.com/uppernorlibhub
Instagram: www.instagram.com/uppernorlibhub

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Grow with Gipsy Hill - run by South London Botanical Institute
What? South London Botanical Institute (SLBI) will be running a series of gardening and plant related activities and workshops in collaboration with Friends of Gipsy Hill, Central Hill Estate Tenants & Residents Association, and Christ Church Gipsy Hill.
When and Where?
Christ Church Gipsy Hill: the Grow with Gipsy Hill workshops are being run as part of regular Playpen (11,12 May - 'Stay and Play' Baby and Toddler Group for 0-4yrs) and the Magnolia Club (11, 18 May - drop-in for people with dementia and their carers) during May. No need to book, just turn up to both - details of both are here: 
www.gipsyhill.org.uk/playpen/ 
www.gipsyhill.org.uk/magnolia-club/
Central Hill Estate TRA: the Grow with Gipsy Hill event is scheduled for 28 May, details to follow
Friends of Gipsy Hill: the first Grow with Gipsy Hill workshop will be part of their Village Fete on 10 July - more details here
More information on any of the above? Please contact Sarah Webley, email: sarah.webley@slbi.org.uk, phone: 020 8674 5787
 
Who is SLBI?
Founded in 1910 in Tulse Hill, SLBI provides facilities for the study of plants including ecology and conservation, and aims to encourage interest in all aspects of plant life. They have a beautiful botanical garden and run a wide range of courses, workshops, school visits and events for all ages - encouraging participation of people from all ages, backgrounds and levels of learning. 
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Sarah Webley, email: sarah.webley@slbi.org.uk, phone: 020 8674 5787
Website: www.slbi.org.uk/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/283618438349250
Twitter: twitter.com/SLBotanicalInst
Instagram: www.instagram.com/slbi_323/

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Community Tech Support Drop In run by ClearCommunityWeb
What? Community Tech Support Drop-Ins are places to get support, quietly practice or ask for advice for computers, tablets & mobile phones.
We can help you use your device, ensure it is safe and help you develop your skills & confidence.
We can help set up or recover accounts, install apps or transfer files.
Typical things we help with include we help with include

• installing apps
• creating or accessing email accounts
• recovering accounts
• re-setting passwords
• transferring files
• filling in forms
• help with accessibility settings
• running updates & checking for viruses.

We solve problems, keep you safe and extend skills!
We also help remotely and, in some cases, make a home visit so contact us for further information.
When? every Monday from 16 May onwards, 2pm-4pm
Where? Rathbone Community Centre, Central Hill Estate, Lunham Road, SE19 1AA 
How to take part? No need to book, just turn up
We are also at the Upper Norwood Library Hub, 39 Westow Hill, SE19 1TQ - every Friday 10am-12noon

Who is ClearCommunityWeb
ClearCommunityWeb help people feel more confident and comfortable with technology through classes, workshops and individual support. Our work is designed to help people feel more comfortable with technology - for those who are new to it, or provide ‘improver’ style sessions for anyone looking for extra support. We understand technology can be overwhelming for many people. Making information as simple as possible can go a long way in giving people the confidence to overcome their fears and anxieties. Our services walk through the steps to resolve computer issues and difficulties people are having in staying connected.
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Caspar Kennerdale, info@clearcommunityweb.co.uk
Website: clearcommunityweb.co.uk/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ClearCommunityWeb
Twitter: twitter.com/ClearCommunity
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ClearCommunityWeb/

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
Moving into Wellbeing
What? This is a gentle movement class led by a trained Pilates teacher. Feeling a bit stiff and creaky? Do you need to get your joints moving again?
When? every Tuesday from 31 May, 11am
Where? Open Door at Christ Church Gipsy Hill, Highland Hill, SE19 1DP
How to take part? No need to book, just turn up. Refreshments will be provided after the class, and you are also welcome to stay for a free lunch too.

Open Door
Open Door is Chrich Church Gipsy Hill's long running community drop in. After being suspended during the pandemic, they were delighted to re-open the doors in September 2021. They welcome visitors every Tuesday from 12pm, serving lunch at 12.30 and offering a warm welcome, friendship and conversation and a range of different activities until 2.30pm - which include several #HealthyGipsyHill activities.
Contact: for more information on this project and organisation: Jonathan Croucher opendoor@gipsyhill.org.uk, or phone 07459 568151.
Website: www.gipsyhill.org.uk/open-door/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/christchurchgipsyhill/
Twitter: twitter.com/gipsyhillvicar

Paxton Parklet on Gipsy Road
What? Building upon the successful first phase of greening Gipsy Road, carried out in partnership with Lambeth Council and Father Nature, the “Paxton Parklet” on Gipsy Road will deliver an engaging community focal point through a parklet style area of greenery and seating designed to enhance the local streetscape of Gipsy Road for the benefit and wellbeing of the local community.
This regenerated community space will promote resident togetherness by creating a central hub and meeting place on Gipsy Road. The Parklet will join Gipsy Hill and Gipsy Road streetscapes in a way that encourages neighbourly mingling and affordable relaxation.
Project Update: Design details are being finalised and engineering review underway with Lambeth Council.

Friends of Gipsy Hill
Friends of Gipsy Hill is a community group committed to inspiring residents’ involvement and sustainable use of local spaces for community wellbeing.
Contact: for more information generally and on this project: Daniel Edge, info@gipsyhillfriends.com
Website: www.gipsyhillfriends.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/Gipsyhillfriends
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gipsyhillfriends/

Click on the poster for a larger version and to download
The Zine Project
What? The Zine project will work with a small group of young people, to produce a local Gipsy Hill zine which will then be distributed within the area.
‘What are zines?’ you might ask! Zines are a short-form magazine, produced and created by the makers behind the zine itself. They’re a creative way to bring ideas to life. Collage, drawings, short stories, poems, interviews - there’s endless possibilities with the contents of a zine. That’s what makes them such a great form of self expression.
The power of zines comes, too, from their ability to connect communities. As Deborah Rogers, founder of The Cultural Sisters, says: “Zines can help you feel listened to and valued. They can help link people together, or be a voice to the community.”
The project will work with 8-12 young people to produce their very own zine. The course will run as an 8 week programme, with 2 hour workshops once a week. The course will be fully immersive; participants will come up with the name of the zine edition, plan the contents, illustration, design, editing and production on the in-house Risograph machine. They will be guided and supported throughout the process, while given autonomy to own the creative process to create their very own creative masterpiece!
When? weekly starting on Monday 27 June, 4.30pm-6.30pm
Where? Paper Stories craft cafe, 234 Gipsy Rd, SE27 9BJ
How to take part? contact Milly hello@paper-stories.co.uk to book your free place

Paper Stories
Paper Stories is Gipsy Hill’s brand new paper craft cafe. Pop in and choose a collage kit off the shelf, browse lovely stationery and keep your eyes peeled for creative workshops and riso printing coming soon! Enjoy coffee from Old Spike Roastery, the UK's first social enterprise speciality coffee roasters, and delicious bakes and pastries too. Paper Stories is your local space to sip, make and unfold.
Contact: for more information on this project and Paper Stories in general: Milly Youngs hello@paper-stories.co.uk
Website: www.paper-stories.co.uk/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/paperstorieslondon/