Welwyn Hatfield Community Grants Awarded for 2025/26

The aim of the Wild Garden City project is to create accessible, nature-based programmes that promote health, wellbeing, and community connection across Welwyn Garden City by utilising its community parks, open green spaces, and natural resources. By engaging residents of all ages in meaningful outdoor activities, the project seeks to enhance mental and physical health, reduce social isolation, and foster a stronger connection with the local environment.

The Feed Hatfield 2025-26 project will provide food to those in need, including those who are "just about managing" (JAMs). Through a network of around 125 referral agencies, the project ensures that all Hatfield residents who reach out or are referred receive the support they need.

Regular, inclusive activities, clubs, and classes will be available at Friendship House for older and vulnerable community members. These sessions focus on health and wellbeing, including cognitive stimulation, fall prevention, nutrition, reducing isolation, and aiding recovery. Run by trained staff and volunteers, the activities are tailored to those with memory impairment, mobility issues, and learning difficulties.

The aim is to engage and educate the local community—both adults and children—about the importance of hedgerow biodiversity. Through three films, the project will highlight the relationship between native plants, wildlife, and human well-being. By raising awareness of biodiversity's value and the threats it faces, the goal is to empower the community to protect and support local ecosystems.

The funding will be used to cover the ongoing running costs of the Club, which are expected to rise significantly in 2025. The grant will help keep membership costs low, ensuring that members affected by the cost-of-living crisis can still afford access. The Club provides a reliable, friendly, and valuable resource for disabled adults, particularly those who live alone, in supported living, or are on restricted means or benefits. It also supports families and single parents with disabled children, who often face financial challenges. The grant is essential to secure the Club's future and maintain this important and affordable service for local residents.

To deliver services to adult survivors of rape and sexual abuse acquired at any time in their lives to enable them to recover, thrive and live their best lives in their families and communities.

The goal is to help individuals from all backgrounds reflect on their aspirations and provide opportunities at the point of need. These opportunities include training courses with certification from the Chamber of Commerce. The aim is to match proven skill sets with opportunities from employers. At a community level, the focus is on building self-confidence, encouraging engagement, and fostering a sense of belonging.

This project aims to tackle climate change and support a sustainable economy by introducing a new ‘library of things’ at the Howard Centre. It will attract visitors to the town centre, help residents reduce their carbon footprint, promote the circular economy, and save money amidst the cost-of-living crisis. The initiative aligns with the Corporate Plan and Welwyn Hatfield’s Net Zero Strategy by encouraging positive change, building the town's reputation, and contributing to a vibrant town centre.