Big Local Gateshead

Big Local is an exciting opportunity for residents in 150 areas around England to use at least £1m to make a massive and lasting positive difference to their communities. It’s about bringing together all the local talent, ambitions, skills and energy from individuals, groups, and organisations who want to make their area an even better place to live.

Our Big Local Gateshead was established in 2011 to engage with the people living and working in Teams, Derwentwater, and Racecourse estates, and in 2016 moved into the old caretaker’s bungalow next to St. Aidan’s primary school to better serve the community. The Bungalow allowed us to reach many more people living in the area, and to host new projects including a cycling club, craft group, pop-up shop, and savings club. In 2018 we launched our second space - a community allotment on the Sandown allotment site off Lobley Hill road open to families from the area, and a home for our long-running intergenerational horticulture project working with 4 primary schools and 3 care homes.

We also organise 3 community focus groups that meet monthly to discuss issues and opportunities arising in the area around the themes of Older People, Young People, and Health and Environment. These groups are attended by volunteers and professionals working in local organisations and provide a valuable chance to exchange information and support.

Our partnership (who decide what projects we run and keep everything going) is made up of at-least 50% residents, and our newly formed membership scheme is aiming to involve more locals than ever in everything we do. If you are interested in finding out more about any of our projects or giving some of your own time to the work we do please don’t hesitate to get in touch, either by messaging us on Facebook, or email at hello@BLGateshead.org.uk

Our Quick Win grants of up to £500 are available to anyone who lives in the Big Local area, or wants to do something good for local people. Get in touch to find out more.