Peer to Peer sharing visits

We have had some great events this month as part of our programme.  We have been getting people together to share their experiences of running a social enterprise. The learning and networking that happens at these sessions is a great insight for those starting out on a project.

We visited the Ebbw Vale Institute on 4th July. The EVI – Ebbw Vale Institute is a building full of story and culture. Founded in 1849 to promote cultural exchange in the neighbourhood, it was vacant for a number of years before undergoing extensive refurbishment. It is now a vibrant community and cultural centre for Blaenau Gwent and the surrounding areas. We learnt how they tackled the renovation of the building, the good, bad and ugly and how they brought the community along with them.

Then came ACE – Action for Caerau and Ely in Cardiff.  This project is a real hub providing community facilities and services initially started with Communities First money.  They are trying to become less reliant on grant funding since the closure of the fund and are doing a great job of diversifying their range of activities while remaining relevant for their users.

These visits allow people to network and ask the practical ‘how to’ questions, as well as hear directly about pitfalls and successes which can be invaluable when starting out on such ventures.  We have some great visits already planned for the rest of the year.