Partnerships: Connecting Waterloo Community

By supporting volunteers to get involved, share their skills and learn new ones, the Connecting Waterloo Community project has helped empower and increase the confidence of valued members of our local community.

The Connecting Waterloo Community project, supported by SoWN (Southbank and Waterloo Neighbours) and Lambeth Council, brings together the collective strengths of Coin Street, St John’s Waterloo, Bright Centres, and Oasis Hub Waterloo. Together, we aim to strengthen volunteer engagement and build deeper partnerships in the community.

Starting in June 2025, the project has delivered wide-ranging outreach, including university fairs, pop-ups and recruitment sessions, which has introduced new volunteers to opportunities in English Conversation Clubs, art groups, youth nights, tutoring, gardening teams and early years support. Alongside recruitment, we’ve created more ways for volunteers to feel connected and supported through social events and training workshops that build valuable skills and friendships.

We have focused on engaging people who may face barriers to volunteering, including those with disabilities or additional needs, parents and carers, and individuals on low incomes or with limited time. Our partnerships with The Autism Project and Southwark Gateway Award has enabled young people with additional support requirements to gain confidence and experience.

Thank you!