Social Value Week is all about shining a light on social value, sparking discussions, sharing best practice, celebrating success stories, and honouring dedicated supply-chain partners. Running from 25 to 29 November, it’s a great way to recognise important initiatives that help people – and for us, our residents.

This year, we’re highlighting the impact our Community Chest programme has in enriching the lives of residents and local groups. 

The Community Chest started in 2023 and is a way we support our residents and local groups to build successful and resilient communities. Through the Community Chest, financial assistance can be given up to £1000 to help get project ideas off the ground. 

A huge thank-you to our electrical and building contractor, Brenwards, who both aid us to support these projects financially and make them a reality.

Examples of just some of the projects we’ve helped are:

  • Swanley’s Shed – funds were raised for this project to supply new tools and equipment. 
    Running for nearly two years, members of the community come together most days to build bird boxes, bat boxes, park benches, and even refurbishing furniture for residents. It’s proven to be an excellent way to bring people together for a great cause and contribute towards the community.
     Eight adults together as part of Swanley's shed - some sitting, some standing.
  • Arts and Crafts clubs – funds were raised to provide both arts and crafts equipment and to begin formal clubs for residents to get involved in. 
    Starting earlier this year, three of our Emerald Schemes received supplies and equipment to promote artistic hobbies – this includes watercolour painting, drawing, and colouring. With the upgraded supplies, clubs were set up to encourage residents’ creative side. 
  • Autism Family Support sessions – funds were raised to deliver these sessions for 10 families living in our homes.
    These services help families caring for a child or young person with autism. The services include education support; help with sensory difficulties, understanding behaviours and sleep; and practical advice and emotional support for parents/carers.
  • Coronation celebrations – funds were raised to help seven of our schemes celebrate King Charles III’s coronation. 
    Each scheme received an amount towards hosting the day and enjoyed an afternoon tea whilst watching the event – some schemes even hired a singer and DJ for entertainment.
  • Swanley station planting – funds were raised to help tidy up and replant the troughs at Swanley station. 
    Volunteers from the local gardening club worked hard to replant two large planters on the platforms as well as a trough and basket at the entrances. A great way to bring pride to the station’s appearance and to brighten up the place.

    Four adults standing in from of Swanley station next to the flowers they planted in a trough.

We are proud to say that so far the Community Chest has helped fund 87 projects, donated over £70,000, and benefitted almost 5000 people.
To find out more about our Community Chest, visit: Community Project Funding | West Kent

Staying scam aware - disrepair claims

We know there are several companies out there targeting our residents with false repair claim information and asking them to register on their websites.   These companies are not associated with West Kent in any way, and we are urging residents to ignore any communications from them Including any registration requests. 

 

How we're supporting residents through the cost of living crisis

Read Ben's* story about how our energy efficiency team supported him to reduce his household bills.