Six organizations supporting communities across East Suffolk have received a combined £210,000 from the Sizewell C Community Fund. The latest funding round supports a variety of local initiatives aimed at strengthening community wellbeing, improving facilities, promoting positive mental health, and encouraging participation in sports and social activities.
Since its launch just over 18 months ago, the Sizewell C Community Fund has distributed approximately £4 million to projects across the East Suffolk Council area. The fund, managed by the Suffolk Community Foundation, provides around £2 million annually to initiatives that support the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of communities most affected by the construction of the Sizewell C project.
One of the key recipients in the latest funding round is Catch22 Suffolk Positive Futures, a youth wellbeing programme that received an £11,000 grant. The funding will help deliver football and boxing sessions for young people in Leiston, offering safe and structured activities designed to improve physical health, confidence, teamwork, and emotional wellbeing.
According to Catch22 Suffolk Positive Futures Project Manager Paul Knight, the funding will create more opportunities for young people to engage in sports and healthy activities within their local community. The programme allows participants to take part in football, boxing, or both sessions during the same evening, helping them remain active while building positive social connections.
The Leiston project initially launched in October with support from Sizewell C contractor Breheny Civil Engineering as part of its community and social value commitments. Around 30 young people currently attend the weekly sessions held every Monday evening at Leiston Leisure Centre. The activities are open to young people between the ages of 11 and 15.
Participants have also highlighted the positive impact of the programme. One attendee, Alfie, shared that the football sessions have improved his confidence and provided an enjoyable opportunity to stay active with friends during the evenings. He described the project as something he looks forward to each week.
Catch22 Suffolk Positive Futures currently operates 16 projects across Suffolk, using sports-based activities to promote teamwork, provide safe environments for young people, and connect participants with positive role models. The organization focuses on improving youth wellbeing and reducing social isolation through community engagement and structured activities.
Several other organizations also received support through the latest funding round. Darsham Village Hall was awarded £82,688 to create a new village green that will host community events and activities. Westleton Village Hall received £54,000 to continue refurbishment work aimed at modernizing the facility and improving community access.
The 1st Saxmundham Scout Group was granted £17,448 to purchase new equipment and support activities for its members. Meanwhile, Saxmundham Museum received £7,833 to continue improvements to its facilities and visitor experience.
Mental health support organization Suffolk Mind was awarded £36,302 over a three-year period. The funding will help provide counselling services and anxiety management courses for residents in Leiston and surrounding communities. The initiative aims to improve access to mental health support and strengthen emotional wellbeing within the area.
The Sizewell C Community Fund continues to play an important role in supporting local organizations and projects that strengthen community ties and improve quality of life in East Suffolk. Through funding for sports programmes, mental health initiatives, youth activities, and community facilities, the fund seeks to ensure long-term positive impacts for communities affected by ongoing development in the region.
