Community SOS scheme forms perfect partnerships

Community-minded businesses have linked up with grassroots organisations as part of a new Council improvement scheme.

A total of 15 firms have pledged to help their community partners with a wide-range of projects, from support with redevelopment or maintenance works to financial advice.

The match-ups have been organised through Wigan Council’s Community SOS that was launched earlier in 2024.

Representatives from dozens of local businesses attended an event at Wigan Town Hall recently, which was aimed at showcasing some of the requests on offer.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities at Wigan Council, said: “Our voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector gives so much to our borough.

“I’m so proud to see our Community SOS project moving forward with 15 community organisations set to benefit from help, which will enable them to continue bringing more opportunities and support to local people.

“Of course, this scheme wouldn’t be possible without Wigan Borough’s incredible business community and we couldn’t be more grateful to them.

“We can’t wait to see the journeys these pairings are about to embark on.”

The Community SOS scheme allows community initiatives to seek free support on big projects which will benefit local people, like the building of gardens or upkeep of community hubs.

One successful match was Merly’s Kitchen, a community interest company based in Astley which offers meals, an allotment and food pantry for people living locally.

They received a pledge for support from contractor, Connolly Ltd.

The team at Connolly had helped Merly’s Kitchen to transform the first half of their secret garden but, through Community SOS, have pledged to go the extra mile and fully complete the project as part of their social value commitment.

Samantha Lowry, who is the founder behind Merly’s Kitchen, said: “We are so grateful for all the help we have received from Connollys, and to Wigan Council for bringing us together. The second stage of development on the site will mean that we can safely engage many more community groups and individuals.  

“We are looking forward to growing a designated mental wellness area and supporting many more vulnerable people. Connollys have worked with us to build an amazing asset for which we are very grateful and will benefit the community for years to come.”

Lisa Bond, customer manager at Connolly Ltd, added: “Connolly Ltd were honoured to be involved with this project. Samantha’s passion and devotion to the community is humbling and it was great to see how much Merlys Kitchen supports the community brining everyone together.

“We are extremely proud to once again be supporting and working with Samantha at Merlys Kitchen and are excited to start the upcoming project.”

If you’re a business looking to support a local community initiative, you can find your own match via MatchMyProject. Find out more and register online here.