Community involvement groups

Working with community groups

Countryside Management Partnerships have developed strong links with community groups all over the county. The flexible nature of the support that can be given to community groups allows help to be given as and when needed. From new groups hoping to make an impact on their local environment to well established groups with more complex needs, Countryside Management Partnerships are able to provide services that create flourishing, sustainable local groups.

Examples of community groups

local green space groups
Parish Councils
schools
charitable trusts
community woodlands
allotment societies

Services offered

The type of support offered can be tailored to the needs of each local community group but may include:

organising and running practical work days
advice on group structure, constitutions etc.
fund raising and grants
management plans
organising one-off events
project management
publicity and site interpretation

Case study – Bredhurst Woodland Action Group

involvement Bredhurst Woodland Action Group was established in 2005 as Bredhurst Woods had become a virtual no-go area for local people due to illegal access by off-road vehicles. The woodland had also been sold off in ‘lots’ and the site had become unmanaged. The Mid Kent Downs Countryside Partnership has supported the group throughout its existence and has provided assistance to reduce illegal access, remove dumped rubbish and funding to reinstate a coppice regime to the woodland. More recently, help has been given to provide the group with the necessary skills to run their own practical tasks as well as designing visitor panels highlighting the work of the group and walks through the woods. The group has now become a vibrant, independent and locally valued part of the community with the skills and confidence to thrive into the future.