A borough sector that knows itself
Lewisham has hundreds of community organisations doing the work. Small grassroots groups, established charities, faith organisations, sports clubs, tenants and residents associations, mutual aid networks, arts collectives.
When these groups know each other, work together, and share what they know, everyone gets stronger. When they do not, everyone runs slower and the borough loses.
Our job is to make sure the sector knows itself. That means networks, meet-ups, brokerage, shared platforms, and a strong newsletter.
The monthly Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club is where the Lewisham voluntary sector meets. Once a month, a few dozen people from community organisations across the borough gather over coffee and breakfast, hear updates from Lewisham Local and each other, share what they are working on, and often find the connection or answer they needed.
Everyone welcome. It is often the easiest way in for new organisations, new staff members, or anyone who has been running solo for too long.
Community Exchange
Community Exchange is where Lewisham community organisations post what they need, and Lewisham businesses post what they can offer. Meeting rooms, unused equipment, professional skills, expertise, surplus food and goods.
If your organisation needs something – space, a graphic designer, a lawyer’s time, tables and chairs for an event, or a volunteer with a specific skill – post a request. If someone can help, we will make the match.
Sector networks
Alongside the general Breakfast Club, Lewisham Local supports and coordinates a range of thematic networks for organisations doing similar kinds of work. Joining a network means finding the people who understand your specific challenges, sharing what works, and often collaborating on funding and delivery.
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Good Food Lewisham
A network of Lewisham organisations working on food justice, community meals, food growing and food access. Meets regularly and shares resources.
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Food Justice Alliance
A borough-wide alliance campaigning on food poverty and the right to food. Brings together community orgs, faith groups, foodbanks and advocates.
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Sports Forum
The forum for Lewisham sports and physical activity organisations. Networking, funding advice, and joint advocacy on physical activity in the borough.
More for community organisations
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Funding and Grants
Whether you need money now or want to get better at fundraising over time, we can help. Live grant rounds, a 1-to-1 service with our Fundraising Development team, the weekly Friday Fundraising Club, and a library of trust lists and training.
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Resources Library
Templates, policies, working documents and tools you can download and use straight away. Plus the Volunteer Opportunities Board where you can post a role for your organisation.