Follow us on social media:
The Snow Ball – a festive fundraiser for Torbay’s communities
Winter is coming…and so too are all things Christmassy. Already appearing in shops and inboxes, it’s scary how quic
16 September, 2026
Powered by Youth event to celebrate Torbay’s children and young people
There’s still time to nominate an amazing child or young person making a difference in Torbay — with the deadline n
15 September, 2026
Brixham continues to amaze me!
Since last writing on here, Brixham has held many brilliant events all in just 3 months and all only happened due t
10 September, 2026
Thank you for your nominations – Torbay Community Champion Awards 2026
It is a busy old time at Torbay Communities (when isn’t it?) We have just closed the nominations for the Torbay Com
09 September, 2026
People power saves Paignton Monastery, set to become community hub
I want to tell you a story and what a long saga it has been, but it proves that people should never give up! Back i
03 September, 2026
Not one, but two awards coming up to celebrate the Bay’s kindest
And just like that, it’s now Autumn. A particularly warm, sunny Summer has been and gone, and now the final stretch
02 September, 2026
“Where are we going next, Jo?”
“Where are we going next, Jo?” I’m not sure when we began, but I know who started me on this winding path; the inco
27 August, 2026
When did children stop playing out?
When did children stop playing out? It is a date that is difficult to pinpoint but appears to have been a gradual d
26 August, 2026
Feeling hot, hot, hot…
“Feeling hot, hot, hot…”, as well as being a line from a song by The Merrymen, (and one that most of yo
20 August, 2026
Giving back to volunteers with the Community Champion Awards
Another week, and hundreds more reasons to celebrate volunteers and volunteering. A quick look back at the events t
19 August, 2026
Making the Most of a Torbay Summer
What a wonderful summer we’ve been enjoying here in Torbay! We’ve been incredibly lucky with the sunshi
13 August, 2026
Youth Unemployment: Why There Is Good Reason For Hope
Alan Milburn’s interim report, Young People and Work, is not a comfortable read. It paints a stark picture of the g
12 August, 2026
A call away from reconnecting to your community
Torbay Communities works across Torbay to reduce isolation and loneliness. Sadly, thousands of people in Torbay bec
06 August, 2026
Torbay Open Door – MacMillan Cancer Support Project
As I sit and reflect about the journey of life and people who have been, and are precious to me, I can’t help but b
05 August, 2026
The Summer we became Neighbours, community spirit during the heatwave of 1976
I was 9 years old, in the heat wave of 1976 and remember it well for the community spirit, for those who lived thro
30 July, 2026
What support is available for Torbay residents with prostate cancer?
Regular listeners to the weekly Community Champions Show on Torbay Radio* will know that prostate cancer and testin
29 July, 2026
Legacies of Hope & Change in Preston, Paignton
Many of you will remember the Baton of Hope, which visited Torbay last September. It was a powerful and moving day,
23 July, 2026
While many “isms” are challenged, don’t forget ageism
We live in a world riven by ‘isms’ and social media appears to be exacerbating them all. Hiding behind freedom of s
22 July, 2026
Community Partnerships – have your say in local matters
Today, in this super-hot weather, I spent some time with Chris Smith who is the new Chairperson of the Hele, Barton
16 July, 2026
Join in and live longer better this summer
Staying active is key to living a longer, healthier independent life. Full stop. And yet the myth continues that yo
15 July, 2026
Summer Arrives in Chelston, Cockington & Livermead
Summer has officially arrived across Chelston, Cockington and Livermead, and the next couple of months are packed w
09 July, 2026
Time to nominate Torbay’s community heroes
Within hours of launching the 2026 Community Champion Awards, we had our first nomination for an unsung hero. Resul
08 July, 2026
Torbay Marine EcoFest
Hello everyone. As summer arrives earlier each year, temperature records of 35.1°C were broken again in May and we’
02 July, 2026
Torbay Community Champion Awards 2026
The prestigious Torbay Community Champion Awards are returning for their third year. We have already celebrated aro
01 July, 2026
Want to make new friends? Have time to spare? Then Timebanking may be for you
Do you want to make new friends? Do you have time to spare? Then joining the Timebank may be for you. Timebanking i
25 June, 2026
From awards and paddleboarding, to vets and befriending – opportunities for volunteers
Volunteers Week has come and gone and all eyes are now turning toward the next big celebration – the Torbay Communi
24 June, 2026
Whatever the weather, there is always something happening right on your doorstep
Whatever the weather, there is always something happening right on your doorstep. Our Community Builders regularly
17 June, 2026
Community Builders: A Year of Connection, Strength and Shared Humanity
As I write this, we’ve just come out of a wonderful weekend of the airshow and school holidays, blessed with the gr
11 June, 2026
Find your people, find your community
Every day, across the Bay, events take place that bring people together. Our Community Builders help set up gatheri
10 June, 2026
Kings Ash residents strive to look out for each other
It’s been a busy couple of months in Kings Ash, with lots of wonderful things going on for the community. The Commu
04 June, 2026
Volunteers’ Week 2026
Welcome to Volunteers’ Week. A time to celebrate, heap praise and give thanks. Volunteers come in all shapes and si
03 June, 2026
The rollercoaster ride that is Brixham’s community
Wow! The last three months since writing here has been a rollercoaster, as always in Brixham! So much is happening
28 May, 2026
Making a life-changing connection can be as simple as ABCD
We are incredibly proud of what we do at Torbay Communities – the clue is in the name. At the heart of everyt
27 May, 2026
From Isolation to Leadership: Joy’s Journey Through Community Connection
For many people, isolation can happen gradually. A change in routine, the loss of companionship, or fewer opportuni
21 May, 2026
Bravo to our tremendous team of trekkers
BRAVO! The walkers trekking 200 kilometres in just five days to mark law firm Kitson Boyce’s bicentennial. Forty ki
20 May, 2026
Marvellous May!
Marvellous May! At last, we can see and feel that summer is on its way. The Devon hedgerows are full to bursting wi
14 May, 2026
Kitson Boyce’s 200km Trek in aid of Torbay Communities
Walkers from leading law firm Kitson Boyce are tackling 200 kilometres of South Devon in five days to raise money f
13 May, 2026
“This is what communities should be like”
“This is what communities should be like”, said Rachel, as we packed up after the Community Sing. She’s right. If t
13 May, 2026
Don’t know where to start with local activities? Start by contacting a Community Builder
I often sit and stare at a black screen, not knowing where to start when it comes to time to write this article. Th
07 May, 2026
Walking and talking for the Bay’s past, present and future
Looking at the news these days, it isn’t hard to see why so many can become so easily demotivated. With the prevale
06 May, 2026
Torbay’s Conservation Area Management Plan – what makes the Bay special to you?
Torbay Council has unveiled updated Conservation Area Appraisals for Torquay Harbour, Old Paignton and Brixham Town
30 April, 2026
Have your say on Torbay’s conservation plans
For the most part, we are spoiled living in this part of the world – sun, sea and sand to one side and the rugged m
29 April, 2026
Reclaiming Our Lanes: a Babbacombe Community Transformation
I would like to share with you this amazing project in Babbacombe that is breathing new life into our forgotten lan
23 April, 2026
Going the extra mile to help Torbay’s communities
Fundraising is essential for most charities to survive, and they are having to compete with each other for a share
22 April, 2026
Wellswood’s Friendship Spaghetti
When I began community building in Wellswood in 2016, I started a weekly Tuesday coffee morning at Me and Mrs Jones
16 April, 2026
Every penny donated can help Torbay’s communities
Times in the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector are tough, and they are about to get even tou
15 April, 2026
Annual Easter egg hunt returns to Kenneth Court
On a bright spring morning at Kenneth Court, Shiphay, the spirit of Easter came alive with children’s laughte
09 April, 2026
We all need friends, so why not try befriending?
“Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting
08 April, 2026
Community Spirit Thrives in Hele, Watcombe and Barton
For the past decade, Hele, Watcombe and Barton have been “my patch” (as a community builder)—three neighbourhoods t
02 April, 2026
Community groups continue to prove to be vital during trying times
Times are hard, and most people agree that they will likely get much harder before they get better. We are weatheri
01 April, 2026
Creative flourishes and cinematic action in Cockington, Chelston & Livermead
The Blue Walnut Café Bar and Cinema in Chelston, Torquay is one of our hidden gemstones – a diamond se
26 March, 2026
Are you listening? Torbay youth lead the way forward
Not being listened to sucks. You’re saying something, sometimes the same thing over and over, but the person you’re
25 March, 2026
Keep Active and Thrive in Preston, Paignton
I’m writing about the benefits of keeping active and how you can do this on your doorstep with the benefit of shari
19 March, 2026
Torbay Community Helpline invites local residents to join their volunteer family
Torbay Community Helpline is inviting local residents to learn more about the powerful impact of volunteering — and
18 March, 2026
The difference giving (and banking) your time makes
The Timebank has been running for several years all over Torbay. Just a reminder of how the Timebank works: for eve
12 March, 2026
A Legacy of Caring
Over the last few weeks, we have been celebrating all things volunteering, shining the spotlight on winners of our
11 March, 2026
Live your best life – sometimes we are so busy surviving, we forget to plan
I recently watched a YouTube broadcast from an American lady in her 90s called Lorraine, who was talking about thin
05 March, 2026
Volunteers like Paul are worth their weight in gold
Volunteers are worth their weight in gold, and luckily, in Torbay, we have lots of them. Not surprisingly, the Volu
04 March, 2026
Conversation Week
Next week, from 2nd–6th March, your Community Builders will be doing what they do best: getting out and about acros
26 February, 2026
Teams of Volunteers and Good Neighbours giving their all to make the Bay a better place
Few amateur or semi-professional sports would thrive or even survive without the help of volunteers. Dozens of club
25 February, 2026
Torbay’s climate champions & emergency workers – both working towards a safer future
We all claim to care about climate change and the environment, but how many of us bother going the extra mile? Sadl
18 February, 2026
Brixham’s community continues to be incredible and busy in 2026
As I write this, I am full of joy for the incredible Afternoon Tea Dance I have just attended at Brixham Scala Hall
12 February, 2026
Torbay’s next generation of community champions
It is never too early to start your volunteering journey, as was exemplified by the nominees in the Torbay Communit
11 February, 2026
New Year, New Beginnings – and Endless Opportunities with the Torbay Timebank
A new year often brings fresh starts and new possibilities, and one opportunity worth stepping into is the Torbay T
05 February, 2026
Three Lifetime Award winners celebrated for their dedication to Torbay’s communities
ACROSS the Bay, community workers and volunteers are striving to make our neighbourhoods and our lives richer. Some
04 February, 2026
Here’s to a happy and healthy 2026!
What a quick start to the year, we are almost through January already!! With the success of the 2nd Torbay Communit
29 January, 2026
Tanny Stobart voted Torbay’s Community Champion 2025
FOR the second year in a row, we wanted to celebrate and say thanks to the unsung heroes who work selflessly behind
28 January, 2026
Presenting Torbay’s Community Champions for 2025
CHILDREN’S Champion, Tanny Stobart, has been voted Torbay Community Champion of the Year. She was presented with he
27 January, 2026
Annual Report 2024-25
Torbay Communities’ Annual Report for 2024-2025 is now available online. Printed copies will be available for those
23 January, 2026
New YMCA property opens its doors for Torbay’s young people
Working as a Community Builder in Paignton, I have the great privilege of watching some people completely turn thei
22 January, 2026
Two days until the Torbay Community Champion Awards 2025
IN two days’ time, we will be crowning a new Torbay Community Champion, and competition is fierce. As with last yea
21 January, 2026
Have you made any New Year’s resolutions this year?
Have you made any New Year’s resolutions this year? It’s that time of the year when it is traditional to mak
15 January, 2026
Finalists chosen for Torbay Community Champion Awards 2025
Judging the annual Torbay Community Champion Awards is never easy, but this year it was off-the-scale difficult. Ho
13 January, 2026
2026 — Let’s get healthy and live our best lives together!
The start of a new year is a powerful time for reflection, renewal, and positive change. As the first quarter of 20
08 January, 2026
Book now – Torbay Communities’ AGM & Torbay Community Champion Awards 2025
Free tickets are now available to book online for this event, taking place on Friday, 23rd January, at Bay Church,
07 January, 2026
A new year, full of opportunities to help out
Happy New Year! A week in already, and if you were looking forward to a quiet one, then it has not got off to a gre
07 January, 2026
Last call for Torbay Community Champion Awards 2025 nominations
It’s the final call to nominate your Community Champions for 2025. Entries close at midnight on Sunday, January 4th
31 December, 2025
Don’t underestimate the flu
Our guest contributor today is Kevin Dixon, volunteer chair of Healthwatch in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Have we fo
24 December, 2025
Plenty of festive fun coming to Maidencombe, St. Marychurch & Babbacombe
‘Tis that time of year when there is so much to celebrate. For people on their own this Christmas, Space at Our Tab
18 December, 2025
Sharing that warm feeling – community awards & warm spaces
NOMINATIONS continue to come in for the Torbay Community Champion Awards, but we look forward to receiving more. De
17 December, 2025
At the heart of Christmas is community, connection and kindness
At the heart of Christmas is community, connection and kindness. Christmas is often described as the most wonderful
11 December, 2025
Less than a month left to nominate Torbay’s community champions
Each week, I get to chat with some truly inspiring people on my Volunteer Show, which goes out each Tuesday between
10 December, 2025
Birthdays and Festivities galore in Wellswood
We celebrated a few big birthdays in Wellswood recently! Talented Dennis, who plays guitar and sings for Music at t
04 December, 2025
T’is the season for good neighbours
Is there anything better in a community than good neighbours? Probably not. They are the glue that holds communitie
03 December, 2025
Join Torbay Communities’ Christmas Countdown – Advent 2025
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
01 December, 2025
Loneliness – the soundtrack of many lives
I love music. Believe me, I have little talent playing an instrument, but listening to music is so important. Fin
27 November, 2025
Your chance to show your appreciation for Torbay’s unsung Heroes
NOMINATIONS are already starting to come in for the prestigious Community Champion Awards 2025, and we are looking
26 November, 2025
Space & Sports – what’s happening in Cockington, Chelston & Livermead
Joey here, talking about Sports and space-related activity. Bringing these two areas of focus together makes me thi
20 November, 2025Nominations now open for Torbay’s unsung heroes – Torbay Community Champion Awards 2025
They’re back, the Torbay Community Champion Awards have launched to celebrate the very best of our communities and
19 November, 2025
From Iconic sites to Festivities – what’s on offer in Preston, Paignton this Winter
Our work is extremely varied, and we meet some wonderful people. This includes those who run groups and folks who
13 November, 2025
Feel alone? Don’t suffer in silence, reach out
Many people think they know what it is like to be lonely. Thankfully, few understand what it is like to be lonely a
12 November, 2025
Swap your time & preloved goods with Torbay Timebank and the Big Exchange
The Timebank is a wonderful way to meet new people, make new friends, and at the same time earn time credits. For e
06 November, 2025
The Festive session can be tough – get in touch if you need support
Christmas is coming up fast, and as you read this, there are just over seven weeks to go! For most of us, it is a t
05 November, 2025
How can we create a community, when it’s difficult to find ways to meet each other?
How can we create a community, when it’s difficult to find ways to meet each other? – Answers on a postcard, please
30 October, 2025
We asked, you responded – how you would spend £20million to improve Torquay
Wow! We asked for ideas about what you would like to improve in Torquay, and they flooded in. We asked you to think
29 October, 2025
A busy couple of months for the community in Kings Ash
My name is Sarah and I’m the Community Builder for Kings Ash, which includes Foxhole and QED areas of Paignton. My
23 October, 2025
Torbay’s Community Builders go global
On 25th September, the Torbay Community Builders had the incredible opportunity to welcome Joe Erpenbach and Rebecc
16 October, 2025
Finding and sharing Torbay’s volunteering opportunities
Each week, we receive a steady stream of people putting themselves forward to volunteer. Some know exactly what the
15 October, 2025
The grand return of Cockington Apple Day
The Torbay heat for the Baton of Hope UK was incredible. The community really pulled together for this, and it was
09 October, 2025
The Baton has left, but a legacy of Hope remains
Don’t you just love it when a plan comes together – and when the planets align in perfect symmetry, it is easy to f
08 October, 2025
Getting fired up for a fabulous night
Over the last couple of years, like many organisations and groups across the country, we here at Torbay Communities
02 October, 2025
Volunteering can benefit you for life – from health to career goals
Volunteering offers numerous benefits, not only to the recipients but also to the volunteers themselves. Let’s star
01 October, 2025
Brixham continues to buzz with activity
As always, I am proud to say there is so much going on in Brixham due to the fantastic community spirit, drive and
25 September, 2025
The Baton of Hope is nearly here…
The Baton of Hope is coming, and it is coming soon – next Tuesday. The Baton (think Olympic torch without the flame
24 September, 2025
Following the Ripples – Rose’s Story: Singing for Fun on Tour
(A follow-up to my article from 29th May, “Creating Ripples for Change in Our Community”) In my last article, I spo
18 September, 2025
What does Torbay Communities actually do?
What does Torbay Communities actually do? A question we are asked often, and a difficult one to answer briefly. In
17 September, 2025
Well hello, Autumn…so what’s happening in the Torre & Upton areas?
Where do I start? Lots going on, Torquay Place Funding for one, members of the community have already attended a Co
11 September, 2025
Don’t settle for less as you get older – lead Active Lives
The best advice as you get older is to do more, not less. To many, that advice may appear counterintuitive, but it
10 September, 2025
Charity Finance Packages – brought to you by Rosie & Pete, our friendly Finance Team
Purpose of our packages Having spent many years working alongside charities, we know one thing for sure: finance is
09 September, 2025
Paignton’s vacant monastery could serve the community once again
Did you know that Paignton had a Monastery? Not many people do, as it’s rather hidden away now, behind houses and t
04 September, 2025
Connecting with our Community Champions
Volunteering is at the heart of so much that we do here in the Bay, and yet we often don’t get the chance to
03 September, 2025
Your Community Builder can help find different ways to connect to your community
Do you know your community builder? If you are a regular reader, you may have come across our articles and seen som
28 August, 2025
Stay tuned to find out what charities and community groups are doing around Torbay
Every week, I have the opportunity to interview someone from the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector
27 August, 2025
First Youth Celebration Event in Torbay
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
21 August, 2025
Summer Fun, Singing, Sandcastles and Circuses
Summer has well and truly arrived in Torbay — with long, sun-soaked days perfect for sea swimming, water sports, an
21 August, 2025
Plenty more fundraising fun to be had this Autumn
Fundraising is a key focus for charities and voluntary organisations across the Bay, taking up valuable time and st
20 August, 2025
The Plan for Torquay VCSE Hackathon
The Government have selected Torquay to receive £20 million over the next 10 years as part of their Plan for Neighb
15 August, 2025
Paws for Thought…an article from a member of our community and her furry friend
An article from a member of our community, and her furry friend: I met Flag as a puppy, a few years ago. Often desc
14 August, 2025
Have your say on how £20million could improve Torquay
Torquay communities have a fantastic opportunity to help spend a whopping £20 million over the next decade. As part
11 August, 2025
Sunshine, Smiles, and Summer Fun
On a bright and blazing summer day, Shiphay Park, also known as Dart Park, was transformed into a vibrant hu
07 August, 2025
The countdown is on – The Baton of Hope, coming to Torbay soon…
The countdown is on for the Baton of Hope’s arrival in Torbay. The UK’s largest suicide prevention initiative will
06 August, 2025
£20million to restore pride in Torquay
Residents and community groups in Torquay are being invited to come forward with ideas to help regenerate the town.
05 August, 2025
Community equipment service update – Torbay Council
A statement from Torbay Council: NRS Healthcare, a major supplier of healthcare equipment to people who are being d
01 August, 2025
“Let’s all take more care of each other”
Hello! I’m writing this on another gorgeous day in Torbay, and the sun is shining! How lucky we are to live and wor
31 July, 2025
Let’s continue to bring people together, with plenty of events coming soon…
Torbay Communities has been operating in the bay now for eleven years, as of this month. Founded back in July 2014
30 July, 2025
Where Belonging Begins: Building Connection and Compassion in Hele, Watcombe and Barton
Community isn’t just where we live—it’s how we thrive. Whether it’s gathering with like-minded neighbours, launchin
24 July, 2025
Plenty for the young (& young at heart) to do in Torbay this summer
EXCITEMENT is building across the Bay as schoolchildren start the long summer break. The lucky ones will be going a
23 July, 2025
Changes and opportunities for Cockington, Livermead & Chelston
I am thrilled to share that I am now working for Active Devon as their new Partnership Officer for Torbay. I am buz
17 July, 2025
Awards celebrate children and young people’s achievements
Children and young people across Torbay are celebrating their achievements with awards. Entries opened this week fo
16 July, 2025
Celebrating ABBA at the Abbey – 50 years on
August 16th marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic Swedish supergroup ABBA performing at Abbey Meadows in Torquay
16 July, 2025
Walk, talk & dance your way to helping Torbay’s communities
Like many charities, we must raise a significant amount of money to continue delivering our services and providing
16 July, 2025
Staying connected, engaged and active in Preston, Paignton
I’m enjoying working with the Preston Community, spending time by the beach in the summer is a treat, and it’s trul
10 July, 2025
Don’t let loneliness distort your self-worth; there’s always a way to connect
At the core of much of the work we do at Torbay Communities are people who are in danger of becoming lonely and iso
09 July, 2025
Who can you lend your time and skills to? Who can help you with odd jobs? Give Torbay Timebank a try
The Timebank is about exchanging your time and skills with others. It is not a direct swap; you can select an offer
03 July, 2025
Eight years of Community Building
As our community builders have been active in Torbay for eight years, most of you will have met them, and many of y
02 July, 2025
Why do your Community Builders do what they do?
As our community builders have been active in Torbay for eight years, most of you will have met them, and many of y
26 June, 2025
People’s Parkfield CIC: A Community Powered Revival
Our article last week introduced People’s Parkfield CIC and its aims to support the local community and to provide
25 June, 2025
Seeking a specialist provider to deliver the end-to-end design, installation, and educational integration of Sustainable Urban Drainage interventions at Torbay schools
Tender Proposal: Delivery of Sustainable Urban Drainage (SuDS) Interventions and Educational Programme in Torbay Sc
23 June, 2025
Baton of Hope Torbay needs volunteers
Baton of Hope’s tour around Torbay needs volunteers! The good news? Over 100 people have signed up to be Bato
23 June, 2025
Accessible ways to stay active in Torbay
Staying active as you get older can be a challenge, and finding activities that interest you might require some dig
19 June, 2025
Reviving a Community Treasure: People’s Parkfield CIC and the Evolution of Parkfield House
Parkfield House is more than just a historic building nestled in a wooded area near the seafront of Paignton — it&#
18 June, 2025
Welcoming opportunities at groups and activities around Foxhole & Kings Ash
In the last couple of weeks, we have enjoyed some beautiful days and evenings here in the Bay, and there have been
12 June, 2025
Heroes needed to support upcoming suicide awareness campaign
Growing up, I became obsessed with comic books and exercise. I remember that people thought it was rather odd that
11 June, 2025
Businesses urged to support Baton of Hope’s tour through Torbay
Businesses are being urged to get behind the Baton of Hope, which is coming to Torbay later this year. The Baton of
05 June, 2025
Community action makes Brixham thrive
A lovely colleague recently wrote an article about ‘The Ripple Effect’ in communities. I can truly say this is ver
05 June, 2025
Have you tried sea swimming in Torbay?
Here in Torbay, you’re typically not far from the sight, sound or even smell of the sea, regardless of wherever you
04 June, 2025
Creating ripples for change in our community
Following on from my previous article (6th Feb, “It lifts your spirits to have someone visiting, and this has made
29 May, 2025
Stories nearly cut short offer a ray of hope
Everyone has a story to tell, and as I discover nearly every week on the Volunteer Show on Riviera FM, some stories
28 May, 2025
Celebrating VE Day and getting involved in Torre
The Veterans Lunch Club put together an amazing VE Day celebration on 7th May, held at Central Conservative Club. T
22 May, 2025
Awareness and fundraising events offer volunteers plenty of ways to help out locally
VOLUNTEERS are everywhere. Throw a stick (metaphorically speaking) at any event, and you will surely hit one. Volun
21 May, 2025
What is the identity of Paignton?
What is the identity of Paignton? That’s a question I was asked recently. It sometimes feels like Paignton is the o
15 May, 2025
What’s on in your part of Torbay?
It is often said that nothing is happening in Torbay for those who live here. Not true. It is a charge levelled oft
14 May, 2025
Spring brings new opportunities to The Willows
As I write this, the sun is shining and it feels like spring is finally here. I don’t know about you, but I am one
08 May, 2025
Active Lives helps to boost happiness & health in later life
Live Longer Better; you can’t argue with any of those sentiments, and hundreds of people have now attended the cour
07 May, 2025
Commemorating 80 Years Since VE Day with your Neighbours
Thursday, May 8th, marks 80 years since Victory in Europe Day, a momentous occasion marking the end of World War II
01 May, 2025
Volunteers needed for upcoming events across Torbay
Volunteers make the world go round. Fact. It is difficult to envisage a world without volunteers, except to say it
30 April, 2025
Torbay community groups invited to take part in VCSE sector survey
We have been asked by our colleagues from Devon Community Foundation to take part in a survey which aims to paint a
24 April, 2025
Craft Fairs, support groups, discos & VE Day celebrations – it’s all going on in St Marychurch!
St. Marychurch, Babbacombe, and Maidencombe are busy as ever, and there is much to look forward to this Spring and
24 April, 2025
Torbay to mark VE Day 80th anniversary
On Thursday 8th May, many around the world will be marking the eightieth anniversary of VE Day, eighty years to the
23 April, 2025
Easter comes early to Kenneth Court
This year, Easter came early for the residents at Kenneth Court, a sheltered accommodation complex in Shiphay and 6
17 April, 2025
Getting started – charity fundraising and donations
In an age of uncertainty, one significant concern that looms over the heads of many will be finances. I’m 32 years
16 April, 2025
Flashmob is back for Carnival and Baton of Hope
The Torbay Communities’ Flashmob will be back this summer, celebrating the return of the full route of the Sp
10 April, 2025
Charities around the Bay need your support
TIMES are tough for all in the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector, and the pressures are overwhelmin
09 April, 2025
Bringing People Together in Hele, Watcombe, and Barton
As Community Builders, we often ask people three key questions: “What would you like to change in your life? What w
03 April, 2025
We must rally around charities and groups during the ongoing age of austerity
When will it all end? It seems that the age of austerity has been with us forever, and the outlook looks bleak. The
02 April, 2025
Embracing the outdoors around Torquay
We have waved farewell to winter and welcomed spring with open arms. I have always liked how symbolic this season i
27 March, 2025
Five years later – a strange new world, a new, pioneering, community helpline
FIVE years ago, we had just entered the strange new world of lockdown and were tentatively feeling our way around a
26 March, 2025
Bob & Richard’s legendary volunteer Disk-Jockeying journey
I met with two incredible gentlemen a few weeks back to find out more about their legendary DJ volunteering journey
20 March, 2025
Five years on since COVID-19 lockdowns began
FIVE years ago, a dark shadow was creeping towards the Bay, and we watched helplessly as COVID-19 spread across Eur
19 March, 2025
Got time to spare, to “spend”? Try Timebanking
Your time is precious, so why not join the Timebank and make it count? You can phone someone who doesn’t get
13 March, 2025
Rethinking our perceptions of age
Rarely does this column spark as much debate as the one last week about ageism. It created quite the storm. People
12 March, 2025
Galmpton bands together to clean up their community
I recently became aware of not one, but two litter picking groups in my area; this is in addition to the lovely com
06 March, 2025
Ageism continues to divide communities
Ageism is a subject I was hoping I would never need to return to, but sad to say it is getting worse. We have, down
05 March, 2025
New Daytime Disco launches in Torquay
A new daytime disco has been launched in Torbay to meet demand from older ravers. It was launched just two days aft
28 February, 2025
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.”
Have you ever stopped to wonder why so many people volunteer? You might be surprised by some of the reasons. Volunt
26 February, 2025
Kings Ash and Foxhole abuzz with celebrations and activities
Christmas may seem like a distant memory, but what a busy few months it was in the Kings Ash and Foxhole areas of P
20 February, 2025
Baton of Hope – a new icon of suicide awareness
Torbay will be hosting the Baton of Hope later this year – the only place in the South West to do so. The Baton of
19 February, 2025
Brixham – the town that never sleeps
There’s always so much happening in Brixham – it seems like a town that never sleeps! There’s so much enthusiasm, c
13 February, 2025
COVID-19 vaccinations finish at Torquay’s Riviera Centre
The vaccination centre at the Riviera in Torquay has closed its doors for the last time after four years of operati
12 February, 2025
“It lifts your spirits to have someone visiting, and this has made a big difference in my life.”
As you are aware, amongst other things, Community Builders help connect people back into the community with opportu
06 February, 2025
How AI, if used carefully, can help charities and community groups
Artificial Intelligence is a hot topic at the moment, with some seeing it as a significant threat and others seeing
05 February, 2025
Exciting times for Torre & Upton!
Happy New Year all, I hope as you read this you will feel the enthusiasm coming across for our lovely Torre and Upt
30 January, 2025
Support packages and services available for charities and community groups in Torbay
TIMES are hard and the Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise Sector (VCSE) continues to be buffeted by cuts in
29 January, 2025
“I must have flowers, always and always”
I always feel cheered when I see the sunny yellow daffodils in the shops. I particularly love the tiny, highly scen
23 January, 2025
Warm Spaces project returns to the Bay
We are a nation obsessed by the weather, and with good reason – it can be a killer. The effects of weather on
22 January, 2025
Happy New Year, from the Torbay Community Builders
Happy New Year from the Community Builders across the Bay. Did you make any resolutions? For me, the start of the n
16 January, 2025
Community Builders and Friendly Benches – here for lonely Torbay residents
So often, the simplest of ideas are the best ones – take the ‘friendly benches’ that are now dotted across the Bay.
15 January, 2025
Want more energy to do the things you love? Let’s get healthy it together!
January presents a wonderful opportunity to focus on personal growth and reflect on your goals for the year ahead.
09 January, 2025
New year, new you with Live Longer Better Torbay
“New year, new you.” How often have you heard that phrase in the last few days? Many times, no doubt, b
08 January, 2025
Be scam-aware in the new year
New Year sales used to be the one time of year that you could get the best bargains and people queued around the bl
01 January, 2025
Nothing embodies the Christmas spirit more than being neighbourly
Christmas can mean so many different things to people and evoke feelings from delight to despair. Not everyone want
25 December, 2024
Crafting connections and fundraising success around the Bay
What we do as Community Builders is not always about what we know but who we know too. Within Torbay, there is a wo
19 December, 2024
Ourbus Torbay ceases operations due to lack of funds
It is a sad fact of life in the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector (VCSE) that projects come and go.
18 December, 2024
A (mini)busload of wellness
Shiphay residents have enjoyed many day trips over the last two years and I am writing this article with optimism a
12 December, 2024
Charities and services here for you over Winter 2024
No sooner had the ink dried on the words “mild winter” printed in this column last week than the foreca
11 December, 2024
Join the festivities coming to Wellswood
Hello everyone! Christmas is coming and our Christmas Street Fayre, on Ilsham Road, is going to be Christmastastic!
05 December, 2024
Advice and support available over Christmas
Winter is a time dreaded by many people because of the inevitable plunging temperatures, soaring bills, and other e
04 December, 2024
How will you spend this Christmas?
It’s beginning to look a lot like… Baby it’s cold outside… I’m dreaming of a white… You get the idea. With a cer
28 November, 2024What does Torbay Communities do?
Torbay Communities is one of the bigger charities in the Bay, yet so many people do not know what we do – certainly
27 November, 2024
Imagine This… newsletter, November 2024 edition
The Imagine This Youth Council bring you the latest edition of the Imagine This Newsletter, with updates on what th
25 November, 2024
Creations and Chaos this Christmas at Cockington Court
At Torbay Communities, we are celebrating our tenth anniversary and have been planning a series of events over the
21 November, 2024
Inspirational volunteers dubbed Torbay’s Community Champions
VOLUNTEERING and working in the community clearly comes naturally to some, and once they start, a lifetime of commi
20 November, 2024
The dedicated volunteers maintaining Oldway Mansion’s iconic gardens
As the nights draw in, some of us hibernate, but others stay busy in the colder, darker months with much to do prep
14 November, 2024
Continuing to recognise Torbay’s community champions
Step forward the latest, but not the last of the Community Champion Award winners and take a bow; you absolutely de
13 November, 2024
Back to the Future of Torbay
I recently joined the Royal Lyceum Theatre’s “Retro Film Club” and watched the 80s classic Back t
07 November, 2024
Celebrations around the first Torbay Community Champion Awards continue
Celebrations around the Torbay Community Champion Awards continue to reverberate around the Bay. Spontaneous partie
06 November, 2024
Opportunity for ten of Torbay’s young people to receive nationally-recognised youth work training
TEN young people from Torbay are to be given the opportunity to train for a qualification in youth work in a bid to
31 October, 2024
The incredible impact of the ripple effect within community groups
Our Community Building team were recently discussing how to spread the word about what we do in the community, as w
31 October, 2024
Your 2024 Community Champions
What a day. A room full of winners and the opportunity to thank them and celebrate the best of the Bay’s volunteers
30 October, 2024
Building Community Connections: A Rewarding Journey
In the heart of our community, the role of a lead coordinator brings immense fulfilment. Each day, I am inspired by
24 October, 2024
Torbay Communities’ Annual Report 2023-2024
Torbay Communities’ Annual Report for 2023-2024 is now available online. Printed copies will be available tom
23 October, 2024
Tomorrow, Torbay’s first Community Champion Awards takes place…
Tomorrow, we find out who are the overall winners of the Torbay Community Champion Awards. We had a staggering 180
23 October, 2024
Finalists announced for the Torbay Community Champion Awards
The unbelievable work carried out by Torbay’s unsung heroes was there for all to see – and it was total
18 October, 2024
Brixham’s picturesque views
As always, new and exciting things are happening here in Brixham! Claire Jo Harmer of the Cabbage Tree Studio, cre
17 October, 2024
Hosts with safe, welcoming homes needed across Torbay
BOMBS, bullets and the human misery they cause continue to make headlines around the world daily. In recent months,
16 October, 2024
Imagine This… newsletter, October 2024 edition
The Imagine This Youth Council bring you the latest edition of the Imagine This Newsletter, with updates on what th
14 October, 2024
Your chance to contribute to Ellacombe’s community magazine
Working with our volunteer team on the Ellacombe & Plainmoor Community Magazine has been a veritable feast of s
10 October, 2024
180 nominations submitted for first ever Torbay Community Champion Awards
WOW. Put your hands together and show some appreciation for the incredible 180 nominations made for the first Torba
09 October, 2024
Torbay Communities’ Annual General Meeting notice, 24th October 2024
You are invited to Torbay Communities’ Annual General Meeting 2024, featuring the first-ever Torbay Community
08 October, 2024
Plenty of Torbay’s past and present to see with our Community Builders
What a wonderful couple of weeks…with lots going on for the Agatha Christie festival around the area, the A.C. Team
03 October, 2024
A few days left to nominate Torbay’s community champions
Up the workers! Hundreds, if not thousands of people, work in and for the Torbay community and deserve our thanks a
02 October, 2024
Support for all the community, throughout the seasons
Well, well – do we have a hint of summer at last, albeit rather late? But how welcome the sun is when it appears.
26 September, 2024
Nominate your community’s heroes
All hail the volunteers! Each of you deserves our thanks and praise. Volunteers do not get thanked enough; perhaps
25 September, 2024
There’s something for everyone in Torbay…but where to start?
As a relative newcomer to the bay, I have been amazed by how quickly I felt at home here and how easy it was to get
19 September, 2024
Keep active and make your chances of falling (plus many other health risks) fall
Health and wellbeing are at the very core of nearly everything we do at Torbay Communities. Whether it be mental he
18 September, 2024
Imagine This… newsletter, August 2024 edition
The Imagine This Youth Council bring you the latest edition of the Imagine This Newsletter, with updates on what th
12 September, 2024
Explore ways to spend time (literally) with Torbay Timebank
Welcome to the Torbay Timebank, which works by members offering their time to others and every hour given earns the
12 September, 2024
A taste of comic con action for Torbay’s under 25s
Jamie, a member of Imagine This Torbay’s Youth Council, is eager to share their creativity and passion. A particula
11 September, 2024
Torbay Community Champion Awards 2024
Across Torbay, there are countless unsung heroes who quietly go about their work, making our Bay a brighter and mor
06 September, 2024
‘What would we do without our community and volunteers?
AS I write this article, watching the sunset from my office window and after another busy week, I think about my ti
05 September, 2024
“You’ll never walk alone” – taking that first step walking with others to improve your health
EVERY Tuesday I host a three-hour radio show on Riviera FM that celebrates all things volunteering (tune in 10am-1p
04 September, 2024
Plenty to do, people to meet in Babbacombe and St. Marychurch
I can’t believe the last time I wrote an article was in May. I do hope you have enjoyed the many things that have
29 August, 2024
Join us for a series of events celebrating 10 years of bringing people together
Now in our tenth year and Torbay Communities continues to go from strength to strength. We are proud of our strapli
28 August, 2024
Alpaca ambassadors visit Kenneth Court
In a heartwarming event that brought joy and laughter to many, Cola and Pablo, two charming alpacas, visited
22 August, 2024
All hail the Volunteer!
VOLUNTEERS are at the heart of so many things that occur daily across the Bay; without them, the world would be a p
21 August, 2024
Wellswood is Blooming!
Wellswood is Blooming! Summer in Wellswood has been a super season for planting and growing this year! Friends of S
15 August, 2024
A life-changing day for Britain, the beginning of a new era for Torbay Communities
March 23rd, 2020, is etched into our minds as the day the world changed, the day the prime minister ordered us to l
14 August, 2024
Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together in Hele, Watcombe & Barton
I have recently started as a Community Builder for Hele, Barton and Watcombe. Joining Torbay Communities, I’m part
08 August, 2024
Adapting to support Torbay’s needs over ten years
A tenth anniversary is a good time to look back and reflect on the many projects that have come and gone as funding
07 August, 2024
Pirate-themed sculpture trail berths at Cockington Court
The 2024 Sculpture Trail at Cockington Court has arrived. Last year’s theme on Outer Space was extremely popular an
01 August, 2024
Looking back on Ageing Well Torbay – helping lonely and isolated over fifties
Ten years is a long time in anyone’s reckoning, but when you are living it, time flies. Torbay Communities is begin
31 July, 2024
Preston bursting with life in the summer months
Whilst writing this article it is a glorious warm sunny day, I think about the coming summer weeks ahead, school ho
25 July, 2024
Torbay Communities begins marking its tenth anniversary
Wow, where did those ten years go? Back in April 2012, voluntary organisations and charities from across the Bay me
24 July, 2024
Unleashed Theatre – our amazing Community Asset
Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) is a bottom-up way of strengthening communities through identifying and ha
18 July, 2024
Community connectors celebrate 10 years of bringing people together
We kicked off our tenth-anniversary celebrations at Torbay Communities this week with a cream tea for some of our m
17 July, 2024
Finding your fellows can make all the difference, and we can help!
In order to live our best life, I very much believe that we need to find our clan, or in many cases clans, but in t
11 July, 2024
Continuing to make our communities stronger together, post-election
And breathe. Finally, it is over, and we can all get on with our work without tiptoeing around subjects and keeping
10 July, 2024
Torbay is the latest to join the UK’s biggest growing movement for food systems change
Torbay is amongst the latest to achieve membership in the Sustainable Food Places network in supporting their effor
08 July, 2024
Music, good food and lending time make for a healthy Brixham
Hi, I’m Helen, the Community Builder for Brixham. I encourage all ages to get involved and work together in their
04 July, 2024
Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes, for all sorts of causes
Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes, with every level of expertise and interest, and involve all ages. Each yea
03 July, 2024
Time For You Torbay – giving carers a break
A new service is aiming to give carers a well-earned break. Time For You Torbay is a sitting service designed to gi
27 June, 2024
Bumping into a local author, with an amazing life story to share
In my last piece for the Torbay Weekly, I mentioned how important those ad-hoc conversations are with neighbours. A
27 June, 2024
Don’t forget your circumstances or your community on 4th July
The battle for the top – the seat of Government continues apace. Would-be MPs of all colours are out campaigning an
26 June, 2024
One small change, many big ripples, making all the difference
Whilst strolling along by the beach one early morning throwing pebbles into the sea for the dog and watching the ri
20 June, 2024
A Manifesto on behalf of the Voluntary sector, coming post-General Election…
As a charity, we steer clear of politics, but as the general election draws close, we have our own manifesto that w
19 June, 2024
Crafty ways for the community to come together
Craft groups have become a beloved staple in many local areas in recent years, offering a welcoming space for resid
13 June, 2024
Torbay’s volunteers continue to shine
A big thank you to all our volunteers who celebrated Volunteers’ Week last week. Your contributions to commun
12 June, 2024
Male voices are welcome and welcoming
Recently, I visited Man Talk, the social chat group just for men, at Custom Coffee Co. in Littlegate Road, Paignton
06 June, 2024
Empowering Torbay to approach systemic issues and achieve change
Two years ago, I was getting ready to step out of the NHS and into a work world outside familiar services and pathw
05 June, 2024
Sharing the stories and memories of The Willows
Who doesn’t love a good story? Out in the community, people tell so many fascinating tales of local neighbourhood h
31 May, 2024
Share your skills and benefit at Timebank
What do you know about the Torbay Timebank? It’s a way of helping people in your community and also getting out you
24 May, 2024
Torbay’s charities and voluntry groups help communities contaminated by Cryptosporidium
Communities come together in a crisis, none more so than in the last few days in Paignton and Brixham when water su
22 May, 2024
First guarantee of a tomorrow – Pharo’s story, part three
Over the last few weeks, we have been telling the story of one young man’s journey to Paignton, overcoming un
22 May, 2024
Cryptosporidium Outbreak update – 10:40am, 17th May 2024
Our Community Builders are working to support vulnerable people in Brixham and Paignton following the Cryptosporidi
17 May, 2024
Thank you Nina, from the people of Kings Ash
Nina Cooper has been the Kings Ash Community Builder for over 10 years. In that time she has had an enormous impact
17 May, 2024
Dreams of rebuilding – Pharo’s story, part two
Pharo is just 19 years old but has already lived the equivalent of several lifetimes, seen things the rest of us wo
15 May, 2024
Roll on May for Babbacombe, St. Marychurch & Maidencombe
Where did April go? Time flies so quickly especially in the life of a Community Builder. So many great things are h
10 May, 2024
Join our One Million Steps challenge for Torbay’s Communities
We’ve launched our Torbay Communities’ Million Steps Challenge! Join us on the 15th July 2024 for the ultimat
08 May, 2024
The refuge of Torbay and a dangerous, costly journey here – Pharo’s story, part one
Barely a day goes by without a news story about asylum seekers. They are primarily sensational and almost always ne
08 May, 2024
Friendly benches: where friendship grows
As the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers”. But what if the showers started back in January, not w
03 May, 2024
Dozens of volunteers celebrated, with many more deserving recognition in Torbay
Last week, I was lucky enough to be in a room full of volunteers – what’s not to love about that? Every conv
01 May, 2024
A simple “Good Morning” can make a world of difference
“Good morning.” Just two little words said regularly with a smile, to neighbours in your street and aro
26 April, 2024Volunteers – the backbone of most groups, events and charities
Where would we be without volunteers? A difficult question to answer definitively, but one thing is for sure, the w
24 April, 2024
Past, present and future in Hele, Watcombe and Barton
Starting with the past, Helen Kelly and I have had conversations with local people about the old days, when Hele Ro
19 April, 2024
Charities in Torbay should stick together after further service cuts
SADLY, no sooner was the ink drying on the newsprint of last week’s column when another much-needed charity announc
17 April, 2024
Pirates of the (Cockington) Court and much, much more fun to come
Cockington has been extremely popular this Easter with three adventurous trails for the local community to embark o
12 April, 2024
Community groups and services are stronger together
There is rarely a quiet moment for the teams working at Torbay Communities, but it is still important that we occas
10 April, 2024
The vibrant community of Preston, Paignton
Preston is a welcoming, vibrant community, with so much energy and I’ve been investigating the different activities
05 April, 2024
Community-based opportunities aplenty with our Community Builders
One of the most lauded projects under Torbay Communities has been the Community Builders’ team, established during
03 April, 2024
Spring has Sprung!
We have just experienced one of the wettest Februarys on record, and the most rain in March since 1947. However, am
29 March, 2024
We’re on hand with tailor-made support for charities and groups in Torbay
Here at Torbay Communities, we firmly believe in our mantra “Stronger together”, as we’re dedicated to bringing tog
27 March, 2024
End of the line for Ourbus Torbay’s scheduled routes
Two unique subscription community bus services pick up their last passengers today (Wednesday) and tomorrow (Thursd
27 March, 2024
Easter comes early for nursery pupils and retirement home residents in Torquay
EASTER came early for these three and four-year-olds from the Orchard Nursery at the Shiphay Learning Academy when
25 March, 2024
Wide range of activities for Paignton’s young people on offer
I hear folk say that there is little for youngsters to do in the Bay, so I thought that I would try to dispe
22 March, 2024
Ourbus passes keys of scheduled bus routes to new operator
It’s been a blast keeping the wheels of the bus going round and round. However, it is time to hand over our schedul
20 March, 2024
New Friendly Bench installed in honour of late Torquay Coastal Champion
A new ‘friendly bench’ has been installed in honour of Graham Stephenson, who maintained and championed
15 March, 2024
Community Builders continuing to bring people together
We are Amanda Lynn and Andrew Wade, the lead co-ordinators of the Community Building Team, a group of 17 dedicated
15 March, 2024
Got time to spare for your community groups and fundraisers?
There is never any shortage of things to do in Torbay, and there are numerous opportunities to volunteer to help or
13 March, 2024
Connect with your Brixham community
Hi, I’m Helen, Community Builder for Brixham. I encourage all ages to get involved and work together in their neig
08 March, 2024
Support packages now available for Torbay’s charities & community groups
Times are hard and our sector is suffering from cuts in funding across the board as the cost of living crisis conti
07 March, 2024
Spring – a time for growth and renewal
AT last, the mornings are getting lighter and the urge to get out and about is increasing with each day. This week
06 March, 2024
Find out what’s happening in Ellacombe & Plainmoor, and get connected with your community
As Community Builders we bring people together to create a sense of belonging in their neighbourhoods. We do this
01 March, 2024
Our work to support the community needs your help
Like all charities, we rely on the generosity of our funders and supporters to continue our work. Financial securit
28 February, 2024
Cultivating Friendship and Community Spirit as Spring Dawns
As the warmth of spring approaches and in the spirit of the season, our communities are coming together to share a
23 February, 2024
Torbay to mark two years since the invasion of Ukraine began
Thursday 24th February 2022 – a date to be remembered by many for decades to come, as the day Russia began it
21 February, 2024
Looking back and moving forward
The return of the Wellswood Xmas Fayre this year was a brilliant success! The street was buzzing with people singin
16 February, 2024
Shared community wisdom needed now more than ever, as fears of ageing rise
Sad but true is that just shy of half the population (49%) do not think they will look good when they are ol
14 February, 2024
Thinking BIG in The Willows, Hele, Watcombe & Barton
Our local Community Partnership is pleased to be planning an exciting event for residents of Watcombe, the Willows,
09 February, 2024
Merely a few steps away from becoming homeless – a risk not to be underestimated
Did you know that you are potentially only a few steps away from being homeless and on the streets? It seems hard t
07 February, 2024
Sharing your time and passion with the community through timebanking
Last month, I was at the afternoon disco at the Conservative Club in Preston. It was brilliant as usual and Bob, wh
02 February, 2024
Tracey Cabache, Financial and Housing concerns for over 50s, You And Yours – BBC Radio 4, 310124
Yesterday, Tracey Cabache, Director of Torbay Communities, joined an on-air discussion on BBC Radio 4 with host Pet
01 February, 2024
Torbay’s higher population of older residents also face more struggles with finances and housing
It is no secret that the naturally inspiring beauty of Torbay hides pockets of poverty that blight the lives of tho
31 January, 2024
An out of this world Christmas for Cockington in 2023
I created two unique events last Christmas with Cockington Court and I am super excited to have the opportunity to
26 January, 2024
More than half of people aged 50+ experience discrimination based on age
Society has dealt with many prejudices in recent years – some more successfully than others. We have faced down cha
24 January, 2024
A Warm invitation to join many groups and activities in Babbacombe, St. Marychurch & Maidencombe
Happy New Year everybody. At the time of writing this at home. I am sitting here with four layers of clothes on. It
19 January, 2024
Take a seat to meet new friends, on friendly benches appearing across Torbay
Much of our work at Torbay Communities revolves around preventing people of all ages from becoming lonely and isola
17 January, 2024
A fresh, brighter start for 2024
As the clock strikes midnight, bidding farewell to the old year, the air is filled with the promise of new beginnin
12 January, 2024
Struggling with a New Year’s resolution? Consider volunteering
TEN days into 2024 and whilst it is probably time to stop wishing people a Happy New Year, it is never too late to
10 January, 2024
Getting stuck into Paignton’s activities for 2024
We’ve just about survived another year, haven’t we? And I feel there is something rather cleansing about January. I
05 January, 2024
Call our community helpline if you need a happier new year
We made it – another festive season over and another year to look forward to. Hopefully, it was a happy one full of
03 January, 2024
Bringing everyone together through our community’s assets
At the heart of every community in Torbay, there is a Community Builder bringing people together. Often, they are t
27 December, 2023
Embracing Change and Community Spirit in Hele, Watcombe, and Barton for 2024
As we bid farewell to the warmth of the recent festive season, the communities of Hele, Watcombe, and Barton, along
22 December, 2023
Help is a call away during this festive season
The enchanting embrace of Christmas is just around the corner. Our Bay has donned a mantle of vibrant colours, fest
20 December, 2023
Dive into Torbay’s Heritage
Torbay Council has been awarded £250,000 from the National Lottery Fund to support increased public particip
15 December, 2023
Check these out in Preston!
I want to share with you some exciting projects in Preston! First, is about the wonderful Preston Baptist Church Fo
15 December, 2023Continuing to build communities
Our team of community builders are working in neighbourhoods across the Bay to help build stronger and more resilie
13 December, 2023
Torquay Coastal Volunteers – continuing a legacy of caring for the environment
The Torwood Coastal Path running from Beacon Cove, along past the Imperial Hotel to Peaked Tor Cove, then on to Lon
08 December, 2023Pride of both Torbay Communities & Torbay’s communities
Time for more boasting this week about the work of Torbay Communities across Brixham, Torquay and Paignton. Last Fr
06 December, 2023
Friendly benches – It’s good to talk
The Community Builder team have always worked to bring isolated people together and help us all lead fuller and mor
01 December, 2023
Torbay Community Development Trust’s Annual Report 2022-2023
Our Annual Report 2022-23 is now available digitally, ahead of Friday’s (1st December) Annual General Meeting
29 November, 2023
Showcasing what’s next for our sector and Torbay Communities
Once a year, we get to stand back and consider for a few moments the impact our work at Torbay Communities has on p
29 November, 2023
Celebrating Preston’s Christine Durrant – Community Matters
Sometimes, you don’t necessarily know what impact you have made on others, but this certainly was not the case with
24 November, 2023
Torbay Assembly – Continuing to be a voice for the people of the Bay
The Torbay Assembly has been working hard behind the scenes for several years, after being set up as part of the Ag
22 November, 2023
Torbay Communities’ Annual General Meeting 22/23, 1st December 2023
Annual General Meeting 2022/23 Friday, December 1st 2023, 5-7pm Torquay Town Hall – The Assembly Hall, Castle Circu
17 November, 2023
Imagine This… newsletter, Autumn 2023 edition
The Imagine This Youth Council wanted to take a moment to update everyone on all the brilliant things that have bee
17 November, 2023
What’s moving and shaking around Brixham? – Community Matters
Hi, I am Helen; I’ve been the Community Builder in Brixham for 6 months now. I encourage people of all ages to get
17 November, 2023
Remembering Torquay’s Coastal Community Champion, Graham Stephenson
Graham Stephenson (1939-2023) was an inspirational Community Champion. He cared for the Torwood Coastal Path in Tor
15 November, 2023
We are looking to champion the unsung heroes that volunteer in Torbay
Thousands of people help make a difference to hundreds of organisations across the Bay, but they often work
13 November, 2023
A sample of what’s happening in Ellacombe & Plainmoor – Community Matters
Check-in here to sample a taster of community activities in the Ellacombe & Plainmoor area… On every 2nd Friday
10 November, 2023
Escaping the jaws of a Loan Shark
As part of our work in the community, we sadly come across people who have become victims of loan sharks. There is
08 November, 2023
Imagine This… celebrates Youth Work Week 2023
Young people across Torbay are getting a special mention as part of the national Youth Work Week celebration, from
03 November, 2023
Amazing mural brightens up Torre – Community Matters
“Wow! What amazing artwork…really brightens up the place!” Just one of the many wonderful comments of Mark BellR
03 November, 2023
Breathing new life into Paignton’s Winner Street
When I first moved to Old Paignton – an area rich with history going back to Anglo-Saxon times and with many
01 November, 2023
Free & affordable ways to keep connected in Wellswood – Community Matters
Hello! This week I would like to highlight some opportunities available in Wellswood for people in Torbay who are s
27 October, 2023
World-renowned artist seeks space to celebrate Paignton
A world-renowned urban street artist is looking for a blank canvas for his next work that will celebrate Paignton.
26 October, 2023
Helping those coming home from hospital
Thank you, thank you, thank you for all those people who responded to our urgent appeal for volunteers to get peopl
25 October, 2023
Asylum seekers vs Police, in a friendly football tournament
Sport is bringing people of all nations together in Torbay A friendly five-a-side competition featured a team of as
20 October, 2023
Autumn: a Bumper Crop of Events in the Willows – Community Matters
Get your pens, calendars and diaries to hand – lots on in the Willows this Autumn. With half term on the horizon, t
20 October, 2023
What does Autumn & Winter in 2023 hold in store for us?
Blink and it is gone. It wasn’t a bad Summer, but already it is fading into memory as the nights draw in and the te
18 October, 2023
Gym buddies raise thousands for Torbay’s foodbanks
Gym buddies from across the Bay challenged their fitness levels to raise thousands of pounds for charity. Three tea
13 October, 2023
Another BIG chance to EXCHANGE your goods! – Community Matters
The BIG EXCHANGES have begun again after having some months off during the summer. Once again we had a second BIG E
13 October, 2023
Urgent need for volunteers in Torbay’s communities
We are always on the lookout for volunteers here at Torbay Communities and here we are again with an urgent ask. We
11 October, 2023
Farewell to awe-inspiring Kings Ash – Community Matters
Cycle Torbay CIC has teamed up with The Crafty Fox Café N Hub in Foxhole, Paignton, to offer more opportunities for
06 October, 2023
Who can you turn to this Christmas?
MORE than ten weeks to go and already we are being bombarded with messages about Christmas. We are being urged to h
04 October, 2023
Plenty more to come for Babbacombe, St Marychurch & Maidencombe! – Community Matters
Well, what a summer we have had. Despite the rain, Community Builders have participated in many fantastic events ac
29 September, 2023
Volunteers needed for vaccination efforts as new variant of COVID looms
Welcome to the new normal. Winter has always meant flu jabs, particularly for older and vulnerable lung conditions,
27 September, 2023
Time flies when you’re having fun – Community Matters
Albert Einstein coined the phrase ‘Time flies when you’re having fun’ Well, I have been in post now for just over s
22 September, 2023
Neighbourly support needed as we head towards Autumn
Hard to believe that Summer is drawing to a close already, and as the weather cools, the harsh reality of the vario
20 September, 2023
Support Torbay’s Communities while you shop online
We’re using a great website called easyfundraising to help raise money for Torbay Communities. easyfundraisin
19 September, 2023
Always room for more growth – Community Matters
Walking through Scadson Woods recently I was struck by the sight of a seedling sprouting from the trunk of a Norway
15 September, 2023
A pandemic of loneliness and isolation
Loneliness and isolation are problems that permeate all levels of our communities and, despite the dire effect on p
13 September, 2023
Chrysalis Bus: Spreading summer joy and creativity at local events – Community Matters
Throughout the summer, the Community Builders embarked on an exciting journey with the Chrysalis Bus, bringing crea
08 September, 2023
Being a Call Handler for Torbay Community Helpline
As a new member of the Torbay Communities team, I have been reflecting on the remarkable journey that began during
06 September, 2023
Keeping track of what’s on in Cockington, Chelston & Livermead – Community Matters
It has been an eventful summer for sure. Lots of great events and community spirit. I hope you all had a blast! I a
01 September, 2023
6 months in and still loving bringing people together
‘Come and be a Community Builder’, they said. ‘Go out into the community and make friends with people.’ Well, that
30 August, 2023
Tembani Court’s residents efforts to make communal gardens flourish supported by local charities
Tembani Court residents have been aided in their efforts to rejuvenate their communal gardens through Live Longer B
25 August, 2023
Composing Paignton pieces – Community Matters
It is always great to hear about new initiatives and this week I have an exciting one to tell you about. Open Seas
25 August, 2023
A busy ol’ Bay, full of opportunities
IT is a busy old time of year for the whole team here at Torbay Communities (when isn’t it?). One of the joys of wo
23 August, 2023Children and young people recognised for community efforts
Children and young people across Torbay have celebrated their achievements with awards as part of Children’s Week.
21 August, 2023
Celebrating Summer in Torquay Town Centre – Community Matters
It’s Summer! Let’s Celebrate! Summer is here. The Circus and Fun Fairs are in town, and there are lots of activitie
18 August, 2023
Every penny raised helps Torbay residents in need
The cost-of-living crisis continues to wreak havoc across nearly all sectors of our society, and thousands of peopl
16 August, 2023
Flashmobbing in the rain – Community Matters
Torbay Communities Flashmobbers were joyfully dancing in the rain, with Anne George, choreographer, dancer and magi
11 August, 2023
The latest action from LocalMotion Torbay
What’s been happening recently in the world of LocalMotion? Nationally, our funders are looking at what’s emerging
09 August, 2023
A smile or a wave are small but underappreciated gestures – Community Matters
Some months ago, I came across a new initiative called “Give It A Go And Say Hallo” and since then have
04 August, 2023
Get together this Summer, with Torbay Together
Stuck for something to do this Summer? You shouldn’t be because there are opportunities galore in Torbay. Not surpr
02 August, 2023
Too early to start thinking about Christmas? – Community Matters
Well, what can I say? It has been a whirlwind for the first three months in my new Torre and Upton Community Builde
28 July, 2023
AIs helping charities and community groups?
Artificial intelligence is in the news constantly with varying views from the end of the world as we know it to the
26 July, 2023
Community bus services under threat
Community bus services are under threat because of a shortage of volunteer drivers. Already OurBus services on the
21 July, 2023
Get in on the action in Brixham – Community Matters
Hello, I am Helen Ambler, the new Community Builder for Brixham. I am here to help encourage people of all ages to
21 July, 2023
Bringing Brixham Together
Much of the work we do here at Torbay Communities takes place, as the name suggests in the heart of our Torbay comm
19 July, 2023
Coming soon: Ellacombe Community Garden – Community Matters
Exciting news for Ellacombe – the launch of a new inspirational project coordinated by the Ellacombe Community Part
14 July, 2023
Community Building in Brixham
We should never take for granted the strength of our communities in Torbay. We may have our problems, but we have p
12 July, 2023
Changes abound, for the better – Community Matters
Hello All, Some of you may know me as the part-time Community Builder for St Marychurch, Babbacombe & Maidencom
07 July, 2023
Free healthy sessions on living longer, better lives in Torbay
A lot of our work at Torbay Communities – Stronger together, focuses on people’s health and wellbeing and we have a
05 July, 2023
From Torbay Community Development Trust, to Torbay Communities
A leading Torbay charity has changed its name to better reflect the work it does. Torbay Community Development Trus
03 July, 2023
Spend your time helping others, with timebanking! – Community Matters
What is Timebanking? Timebanking is about allowing those who are already or would like to be, active in their neigh
30 June, 2023
LocalMotion Financial Wellbeing workshop
LocalMotion will be running a Financial Wellbeing workshop on Thursday 20th July, 2-5pm at the Windmill Centre in T
29 June, 2023
Helpline, guidance line, offload line, information line…lifeline?
“Hello, Torbay Community Helpline, how may I help you?” is a phrase we have used almost 80,000 times since the help
28 June, 2023
Sun shinning on The Willows – Community Matters
The sun is shining on the Willows, with lots for you to get involved with. As Community Builders we are here to con
23 June, 2023
Volunteers keep community bus wheels going round and round
The wheels on Ourbus go round and round…thanks to our fantastic volunteer drivers, but much like any fantastic thin
21 June, 2023
New Parkinsons’ Support & gentle exercise groups come to Torquay – Community Matters
We have some good news for Torbay, after months of planning, two new groups are starting have started. Parkinson So
16 June, 2023You can help out around Torbay in so many different ways
THINK of the COVID crisis, and it is difficult to conjure up anything positive, but there were some good changes in
14 June, 2023
Sam, Mel & Helen, Community Hub Volunteers – Volunteers’ Week 2023
Visit the Crafty Fox Cafe ‘n’ Hub in Foxhole any Friday morning and there waiting to serve you will be
07 June, 2023
A Myriad of ways to volunteer around Torbay
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Volunteers’ Week is coming to an end, but volunteering
07 June, 2023
Rae, Volunteer Befriender – Volunteers’ Week 2023
POTENTIALLY lonely and isolated people across the Bay look forward to an uplifting phone call from a volunteer befr
06 June, 2023
Ollie, Volunteer Performing Arts Coach – Volunteers’ Week 2023
Student Ollie Brown has his sights set on the stage and is helping others achieve the same. The 19-year-old from Br
05 June, 2023
Jemma & Paddy, Volunteer Gardeners – Volunteers’ Week 2023
A community garden which became a refuge during COVID is flourishing as a peaceful haven for all. Volunteers Jemma
02 June, 2023
Meeting the people of Shiphay – Community Matters
By Marina Zapata, Community Builder for Shiphay Hello, my name is Marina, and I was very fortunate to have been app
02 June, 2023
Andy, Volunteer Bus Driver – Volunteers’ Week 2023
EVERYBODY is on first name terms on the bus dubbed the mobile community centre that is kept running by volunteer dr
01 June, 2023
VolunteerTorbay.com is now live
Charities and voluntary organisations are challenging businesses across Torbay to get involved in recruiting, celeb
01 June, 2023
Celebrating Torbay’s Volunteers
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Welcome to Volunteers’ Week, a celebration of all thin
31 May, 2023
Appreciating the spaces and faces around us – Community Matters
By Joanna Reynolds, Community Builder for Paignton Town Centre & Clifton with Maidenway Tegen (dog) and I norma
26 May, 2023
Steps forward to help with family, financial and food-related struggles in Torbay
By Jo Curtis, LocalMotion Torbay Systemic Change Partner LocalMotion works in six towns up and down the UK, includi
24 May, 2023
Coronation Festivities around Hele, Watcombe & Barton – Community Matters
By Theo Tanser, Community Builder for Hele Watcombe & Barton, Coordinator for Torbay Timebank & Community B
19 May, 2023
Connecting Torbay’s lonely residents
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead It can be a lonely old world – as we know so well at the Tor
17 May, 2023
FROM PIRATES AND CORONATIONS, TO FAIRGROUNDS AND SUPERHEROES – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Joey Damiral, Community Builder for Chelston, Cockington & Livermead Well, it’s bank holidays g
12 May, 2023
TORBAY’S VOLUNTEERING EFFORTS FIT FOR A KING
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Lots to celebrate in the Bay this week after a weeken
10 May, 2023
PLENTY TO VOLUNTEER FOR ACROSS TORBAY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Christine Durrant, Community Builder for Preston The Coronation Bank Holiday is a reason for everyone to
05 May, 2023
VOLUNTEERING – THE VITAL ELEMENT OF TORBAY’S COMMUNITIES
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead What a splendid start to the month of May – one Bank
03 May, 2023
PITCHING IN AROUND TORQUAY TOWN CENTRE – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Ceri Silk, Community Builder for Torquay Town Centre As a Community Builder, I focus on what’s strong, wh
27 April, 2023
POSITIVE PEOPLE TORBAY PROJECT CONCLUDES, AFTER SUPPORTING HUNDREDS OF UNEMPLOYED LOCALS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead All good things must end, or so the saying goes, but
26 April, 2023
PAIGNTON VOLUNTEER ONE OF JUST 500 CHOSEN AS CORONATION CHAMPIONS
Paignton volunteer Maggie Stapleton has been chosen as one of just 500 Coronation Champions in the country. The cha
26 April, 2023
WELLSWOOD GEARS UP FOR CORONATION WEEKEND – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Marianne Parker, Community Builder for Wellswood In Wellswood, the excitement is building for the Coronat
21 April, 2023
CORONATION CELEBRATIONS AROUND TORBAY
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Just over two weeks to go to the King’s Coronation, a
19 April, 2023
SPRING IN SOUTH PAIGNTON – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Gill Knight, Community Builder for Paignton South (Goodrington, Roselands, White Rock, Hookhills, Broadsands, Ga
14 April, 2023
UNITED, WE CAN BE MORE EFFECTIVE IN HELPING EACH OTHER
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead The Bay was busy last weekend as tourists returned in
12 April, 2023
CHANGE COMING THIS SPRING – COMMUNITY MATTERS
Leah Whitcher, former Community Builder for Torre and Upton – now a Community Builder for Paignton Town Centr
07 April, 2023
KEEPING A NEIGHBOUR’S CUPBOARDS STOCKED – NEIGHBOURLY HELP THROUGH TORBAY COMMUNITY HELPLINE
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead EVERY week hundreds if not thousands of people across
05 April, 2023
BOB BRAVES WIND & RAIN IN 70KM FOR 70TH BIRTHDAY FUNDRAISER
Indomitable volunteer and fundraiser Bob Ward braved wind and rain to pound the streets of Torbay at weekend walkin
03 April, 2023
A WELCOME RETURN TO PAIGNTON TOWN CENTRE – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Joanna Reynolds, Community Builder for Paignton Town Centre & Clifton with Maidenway Hello! My name i
31 March, 2023
BOB WARD’S 70KM FUNDRAISER TO MARK 70TH BIRTHDAY
Indomitable volunteer and fundraiser Bob Ward will be out pounding the streets of Torbay again this weekend as he a
29 March, 2023
TIME TO TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS SPRING?
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant We are officially in Spring – t’is the session for
29 March, 2023
SPRING IS NOW BLOOMIN’! – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Usha Garrattley, Community Builder for Ellacombe & Plainmoor As I write, spring is on its way. Spring
24 March, 2023
THREE YEARS SINCE FIRST LOCKDOWN BEGAN
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead On the one hand, it feels like an eternity ago, but o
22 March, 2023
TORBAY’s King of Fundraisers is bowing out, having raised more than £12.5m for the charity and voluntary sector.
Robin Causley, Community Funding Advisor with Torbay Community Development Trust, is retiring after more than 30 ye
21 March, 2023
Angelique & Peter’s story – Torbay Community Helpline
Volunteer shopper Peter Long makes sure his neighbour’s cupboards remain stocked and she always has food on the tab
20 March, 2023
Pioneering community helpline celebrates its third anniversary
A PIONEERING community Helpline which has helped 8,500 people in Torbay, is celebrating its third birthday. The Tor
20 March, 2023
JOHN & AILEEN’S STORY – TORBAY COMMUNITY HELPLINE
A highlight of John Corchran’s week is his get-together with volunteer befriender Aileen Birch. It might only last
20 March, 2023
TACKLING THE COST OF LIVING TOGETHER – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Theo Tanser (Timebanking & Community Builders’ External Relations Coordinator, and Community Builder f
17 March, 2023
A BIG WEEKEND WITH A BIG HELP OUT
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead The King’s Coronation might not appeal to you, but th
15 March, 2023
HOW DO YOU WANT TO SPEND YOUR TIME? – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Ruth Tshoukas, Timebank Broker for Paignton The Timebank has been running in Torbay now for a number of y
10 March, 2023
VOLUNTEERS, THE LIFEBLOOD OF CHARITIES EVERYWHERE
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead VOLUNTEERS – the glue that holds so many charities an
08 March, 2023
TORBAY MP WILL SLEEP OUTDOORS IN AID OF YOUNG HOMELESS PEOPLE
Torbay MP Kevin Foster will be sleeping outdoors on Friday, so that others don’t have to. MP for Torbay Kevin
06 March, 2023
TACKLING THE COST OF LIVING IN TORQUAY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Helen Kelly, Community Builder for The Willows Our local Community Partnership is pleased to extend an ex
03 March, 2023
A CONCERNING RISE IN AGGRESSION TOWARDS VOLUNTEER CALL HANDLERS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead HARD to believe, but the Torbay Community Helpline ha
01 March, 2023
HELP IS ON HAND FOR KINGS ASH AND COLLATON ST. MARY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Nina Cooper, Community Builder for Kings Ash & Collaton St. Mary I discovered a new community project
23 February, 2023
MANY IN TORBAY STILL NEED A ROOF OVER THEIR HEADS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead HOMELESSNESS is something that the majority of us can
22 February, 2023
CORONATION WILL BE COMMUNITY CELEBRATION – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Jennie Langridge, Community Builder for St. Marychurch, Babbacombe & Maidencombe Although the King’s
17 February, 2023
CHARITIES AND VOLUNTARY GROUPS FEAR FOR THEIR FUTURE AND THEIR CLIENTS
Charities and voluntary organisations fear they could go to the wall as costs spiral and grants and donations decli
16 February, 2023
MANY STILL FIGHTING TO HELP DESPITE FINANCIAL PRESSURES
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead TORBAY is famous for many things its amazing topograp
15 February, 2023
JOINING IN – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Andrew Wade, Community Builder Lead Coordinator So, I am just starting my second month as Community Build
10 February, 2023
NOT A FAN OF THE CORONATION? THERE ARE SOME COMMUNITY BENEFITS AT LEAST…
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead The Coronation of King Charles III later this year mi
08 February, 2023
CLASSICAL MUSIC HAS PROVIDED THE RHYTHM TO FRANK REED
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
08 February, 2023
GIVING SEND CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE, AND THEIR FAMILIES A VOICE – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Kelly Givens, SENDIASS Torbay Lead We want children and young people with Special Educational Needs and D
03 February, 2023
HOW DO WE SOLVE SYSTEMIC ISSUES IN TORBAY?
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant In a mission to create a connected Torbay, where
01 February, 2023
TRY SOMETHING NEW THIS YEAR – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Theo Tanser, Community Builder for Hele, Watcombe & Barton January brings the usual good intentions a
27 January, 2023
GET INTO THE RHYTHM OF THE NEW YEAR – COMMUNITY MATTERS
Author Christine Durrant Former Preston Community Builder for Torbay Communities View all posts
20 January, 2023
A REMINDER OF WHAT WE DO, FOR 2023 – PART THREE
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant Our third and final act of attempting to summaris
18 January, 2023
SLEEP OUT, SO OTHERS DON’T HAVE TO – SLEEP EASY 2023
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
17 January, 2023
NEW FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR ORGANISATIONS SUPPORTING THOSE AFFECTED BY THE COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS!
Devon Voluntary Action is thrilled to announce that, delivered in partnership with OneDevon and working with local
16 January, 2023
BRING ON THE BRICKS! – COMMUNTIY MATTERS
By Joey Damiral, Community Builder for Cockington, Chelston & Livermead 2023 is officially underway! We
13 January, 2023A REMINDER OF WHAT WE DO, FOR 2023 – PART TWO
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant Continuing on from last week’s column, I am attem
11 January, 2023
NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS? LET’S DO IT TOGETHER! – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Ceri SIlk, Community Builder for Torquay Town Centre It is the season to be merry, let’s continue to shar
06 January, 2023A REMINDER OF WHAT WE DO, FOR 2023 – PART ONE
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant Well, it’s 2023 now. The big question, as per usu
04 January, 2023
DEVON, PLYMOUTH AND TORBAY VCSE ASSEMBLY UPDATE
Dear Colleagues, We’re writing to you as one of the over 6,000 Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) or
03 January, 2023
RICH OR POOR?
By Tracey Cabache, Director of Torbay Community Development Trust As the year comes to a close it is a time
28 December, 2022
IT’S CHRISTMAS! – COMMUNITY MATTERS
Author Marianne Parker Community Builders' Learning Coordinator & Creative Community Builder for Wellswood View
23 December, 2022
HOW HAS THE COST OF LIVING CRISIS AFFECTED TORBAY’S CHARITIES AND GROUPS?
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant As the impact of the Cost-of-Living Crisis contin
21 December, 2022
HAVE YOU GOT THE TIME TO RECONNECT WITH OTHER PEOPLE?
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant Figuring out what on Earth you want to do with yo
14 December, 2022
HELP THROUGH A CHALLENGING CHRISTMAS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Gill Knight, Community Builder for Paignton South – Goodrington, Roselands, White Rock, Hookhills, Broadsands, G
14 December, 2022
COST OF LIVING FEEDBACK FROM VOLUNTEER GROUPS AND CHARITIES IN TORBAY NEEDED URGENTLY
As the impact of the Cost-of-Living Crisis continues to hit society at all levels, a survey has been sent to all Vo
13 December, 2022
KINDNESS, KINDNESS & MORE KINDNESS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Leah Whitcher, Community Builder for Torre “Kindness, kindness and more kindness.” – I
09 December, 2022
ONE CALL, THAT’S ALL THIS CHRISTMAS
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant Unfortunately, the next few weeks will be tough f
07 December, 2022
LET’S BASK IN WARMTH OF COMMUNITY AS WE ENJOY SPIRIT OF GIVING…AND RECEIVING – COMMUNITY MATTERS
It’s getting chilly, eh!? I’m writing to you, nestled in a small grotto of blankets and jumpers, hot water bottle a
02 December, 2022
WARM SPACES TORBAY 2022
“Warm Spaces are places across Torbay which are warm, welcoming, and safe. They are free to use, and visitors
01 December, 2022
WE CAN HELP IF YOU’LL BE LONELY THIS CHRISTMAS…
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant An inevitable topic to cover at this time of year
30 November, 2022
OPENING DOORS TO PROVIDE A WONDERFUL, WARM WELCOME – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Usha Garrattley, Community Builder for Ellacombe and Plainmoor Winter is on the way, and so are Warm Spac
25 November, 2022
NURTURE IN CHALLENGING TIMES – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Helen Kelly, Community Builder for The Willows It is heartening to hear how we support each other; someth
18 November, 2022
HAVE YOUR SAY – COST OF LIVING CRISIS SURVEY FOR TORBAY’S VCSE GROUPS & ORGS
If you represent a charity or voluntary group and have not received this survey via other sources, we would appreci
16 November, 2022
THE FORCE IS STRONG WITH TORBAY’S YOUNG PEOPLE
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant Younglings from across Torbay (plus any family me
16 November, 2022
TCDT AGM SET FOR 28TH NOVEMBER 2022
Author Matt Saunders Marketing and Communications Officer for Torbay Communities View all posts
14 November, 2022
ALL INVITED TO TIMEBANK CAFE MEETINGS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Ruth Tshoukas, Timebank Broker for Paignton Torbay Timebank involves all sorts of different skills, from
11 November, 2022
MUCH NEEDED REKINDLING OF #TORBAYKIND
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead VOLUNTEERING, a subject close to the heart of chariti
09 November, 2022
CROP OF AWARDS INSPIRING BAY COMMUNITY GARDEN TO ‘GROW’CROP OF AWARDS INSPIRING BAY COMMUNITY GARDEN TO ‘GROW’
Torquay’s Cricketfield Community Garden is harvesting trophies galore for the role it plays within the Hele and Bar
04 November, 2022
TORQUAY YARN FAIRIES CREATE TRIBUTE TO ARMISTICE DAY
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
04 November, 2022
COMMUNITY DISCO IS BACK AND EVERYONE IS INVITED TO COME ALONG – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Chris Durrant, Community Builder for Preston, Paignton The Preston community afternoon disco is back! Thi
04 November, 2022
WARM SPACES IN COMMUNITY PLACES
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead As winter looms, warm spaces are being set around the
02 November, 2022
OLD PHONE BOX TO BE USED FOR SOMETHING POSITIVE IN COMMUNITY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Jennie Langridge & Amanda Lynn, Community Builders for St. Marychurch, Babbacombe & Maidencombe A
28 October, 2022
HOW MANY MORE WILL NEED TO CALL TORBAY COMMUNITY HELPLINE THIS WINTER?
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead The weather has been challenging over the last few da
26 October, 2022
LAUGHTER AND TEARS AS WE SHARE OUR STORIES, TIPS AND EXPERIENCES – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Nina Cooper, Community Builder for Kings Ash & Collaton St. Mary The community in Foxhole, Paignton,
21 October, 2022
WHERE TO TURN DURING THESE TIMES OF NEED
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead NO matter how tough things get over the next few mont
19 October, 2022
HELP IN A PERIOD OF CRISES – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Matt Saunders, Marketing & Communications Assistant A word that’s been repeated ad nauseam over the l
14 October, 2022
NOW’S NOT THE TIME TO UNDERESTIMATE COVID-19
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Will life ever return to those heady and now nostalgi
12 October, 2022
MUMMY AND ME COMES OF AGE!
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
11 October, 2022
A NETWORK OF NEIGHBOURLINESS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Times are hard, and they are likely to get much harde
07 October, 2022
TORBAY NEEDS MORE NEIGHBOURLINESS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Yet again, the phones have been ringing off the hook
05 October, 2022
A FRESH START FOR AUTUMN – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Usha Garrattley, Community Builder for Ellacombe & Plainmoor Septembers are for fresh starts! so I re
30 September, 2022
CANCER SURVIVOR BRAVES THE SHAVE FOR MACMILAN
FUNDRAISER, Bruce Barker wanted to do a little bit more to make sure his local MacMillan Coffee Morning fundraiser
30 September, 2022TORBAY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TRUST’S ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – (POSTPONED)
UPDATE: Due to unforeseen circumstances, this AGM has now been postponed, with a new date in early/mid-November to
29 September, 2022
MORE HELP NEEDED DURING TOUGH TIMES IN TORBAY
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Some very familiar themes are re-emerging as summer g
28 September, 2022
RESIDENTS WITH VISION FOR CLEAN, SAFE AND ATTRACTIVE SURROUNDINGS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Ceri Silk, Community Builder for Torquay Town Centre I love being a community builder, supporting individuals to
23 September, 2022
A FINAL BOW – AGEING WELL FESTIVAL 2022
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
21 September, 2022
SEED OF AN IDEA RESULTS IN SOMETHING WONDERFUL – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Christine Durrant, Community Builder for Preston The life of a community builder is never the same two da
16 September, 2022
AGEING WELL FESTIVAL TO GO AHEAD IN HONOUR OF HER MAJESTY
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead What a turbulent few years we have lived through. Lif
13 September, 2022
GET IN ON THE COMMUNITY-BASED ACTION AT THIS YEAR’S AGEING WELL FESTIVAL! – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Marianne Parker, Community Builder for Wellswood Our entire community building team will be at the Ageing
09 September, 2022
HELP IS ON HAND
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead It has started. The much-predicted meltdown among fam
07 September, 2022
HOW YOU CAN HELP OTHERS WITH GLASSES – AND EVEN SPARE BRAS! – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Gill Knight, Community Builder for Paignton South – Goodrington, Roselands, White Rock, Hookhils, Broadsan
02 September, 2022
DON’T FORGET NEIGHBOURLINESS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Good neighbours are a blessing, and they come into th
31 August, 2022
YOU CAN FIND GOOD NEWS LOCALLY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Sandra Harper, who is leaving her role as Torquay Timebank Broker & Community Cafe Support, to become a Well
26 August, 2022
YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN THIS COST OF LIVING CRISIS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead You can’t beat a bit of sunshine and good weather to
24 August, 2022
AGEING WELL FESTIVAL WILL PASS ON LEGACY TO BAY COMMUNITY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Leah Whitcher, Community Builder for Torre & Upton Hello again. We’ve been pretty spoiled for sunshine in To
19 August, 2022ONE MONTH UNTIL THE NEXT AGEING WELL FESTIVAL
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead In just one month’s time, we will be throwing o
17 August, 2022
IT’S A LONG ROAD, AND WE SHOULD DO IT TOGETHER – COMMUNITY MATTERS
If I told you to relax and not worry, you would probably throw something at me, and rightly so. For many of us, it
12 August, 2022WHAT DOES TCDT DO IN 2022? – PART TWO
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead Thank goodness for Summer and sunshine bringing a lit
10 August, 2022
YOUNG CARERS AND THE BATH PHILHARMONIA
Author David Gledhill Marketing and Communications Lead for Torbay Communities View all posts
05 August, 2022
COOL VEHICLES ON SHOW AT CHILDREN’S WEEK SCI-FI DAY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Joey Damiral, Community Builder for Chelston, Cockington & Livermead Torbay has experienced a thrill
05 August, 2022WHAT DOES TCDT DO IN 2022? – PART ONE
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead EVERY now and again someone will ask – ‘what do
03 August, 2022
ONE-STOP SHOP FOR THOSE STRUGGLING IN THE COST OF LIVING CRISIS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Helen Kelly, Community Builder for The Willows On The Willows, many of us are talking about the rising co
29 July, 2022
COMING TOGETHER TO MAKE THINGS FAIR
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead COMMUNITIES are at their strongest when the people in
27 July, 2022
SOMETIMES IT’S GOOD TO LET THE GRASS GROW UNDER YOUR FEET – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Christine Durrant, Community Builder for Preston Last week, I noticed an article apologising for the fact
22 July, 2022NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT TO VOLUNTEER
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead PEOPLE volunteer for all sorts of reasons, and the be
20 July, 2022
YOUR CHANCE TO HELP WITH THE BIG EXCHANGE – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Ruth Tshoukas, Timebank Broker for Paignton The Timebank is all about supporting each other. People need
15 July, 2022
YOUNG HOMELESS PEOPLE NEED A ROOF OVER THEIR HEADS IN TORBAY
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead IT has been a busy old week at the YMCA’s Nightstop p
13 July, 2022
THERE’S SO MUCH GOING ON IN SHIPHAY – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Nicola Shellard, Community Builder for Shiphay Well, the Sun had her hat on for our Jubilee cream tea in
08 July, 2022
NURSES LEAGUE DONATE TO TORBAY FOOD ALLIANCE
NURSES from across the world who all trained at Torbay Hospital have made a donation to the Torbay Food Alliance. J
05 July, 2022
BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER – AGEING WELL FESTIVAL 2022
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead We are getting very excited about the Ageing Well Fes
02 July, 2022
SCARECROWS, YARNBOMBERS AND CREAM TEAS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Amanda Lynn & Jennie Langridge, Community Builders for St. Marychurch, Babbacombe & Maidencombe W
01 July, 2022
TORBAY ASSEMBLY RETURNS
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead THE Torbay Assembly is back and is once again holding
29 June, 2022
COMMUNITY GARDEN IS BLOOMIN’ MARVELOUS! – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Theo Tanser and Dan Best, Community Builders for Hele, Watcombe & Barton As community builders, we su
24 June, 2022
WONDERFUL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES TO JOIN IN BEAUTIFUL BRIXHAM – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Victoria Campbell, Community Builder for Brixham It’s the absolute best time of the year to be living in
22 June, 2022
HELPING YOUR COMMUNITY
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead During the pandemic, volunteering came to the fore in
22 June, 2022
COST OF LIVING CRISIS BITES HARDER
PLEAS for food and help with energy bills are rocketing as some families are forced to turn off power supplies to s
17 June, 2022
£120,000 TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH IN CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE IN TORBAY
A charity in Torbay has been awarded £120,000 to provide mental health support to children and young people in our
16 June, 2022
COST OF LIVING CRISIS IN TORBAY
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead THERE are challenging times ahead for us all as we tr
15 June, 2022
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HOST TORBAY’S HOMELESS YOUTHS
A new service that works to keep young homeless people off the streets is marking its one-hundredth night with a de
10 June, 2022
IT’S GREAT TO SEE PEOPLE OF ALL AGES INVOLVED IN COMMUNITY EVENTS – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Joey Damiral, Community Builder for Chelston, Cockington and Livermead Torbay has experienced its fair sh
10 June, 2022
OUR COMMUNITY BUILDERS – PART FIVE
By David Gledhill, Marketing & Communications Lead WHAT a weekend that was, Platinum Jubilee celebration
08 June, 2022
THE AGEING WELL FESTIVAL RETURNS
THE Ageing Well Torbay Festival is back this year and the organisers are planning on it being bigger and better tha
27 May, 2022
1,750 EXPECTED AT TORBAY FESTIVAL FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE
More than 1,750 children and young people are expected at a two day festival near Brixham this weekend. The second
25 May, 2022
CELEBRATING THE JUBILEE! – COMMUNITY MATTERS
By Marianne Parker, Community Builder for Wellswood I have been watching seven Great Tit chicks hatch and gr
20 May, 2022
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK FOCUSSES ON LONELINESS
LONELINESS is causing mental health problems in Torbay to rocket as we come out of the COVID crisis. The Torbay Com
05 May, 2022