Since launching, the London Cancer Hub Community Fund has been doing what it set out to do: putting money behind local people and organisations who make life better for the community around us. Three projects in, the results speak for themselves - hundreds of families, patients and residents already benefiting.
Here's what the support has made possible so far.
Helping Sutton families navigate SEND, one workshop at a time
PlayWise is launching a free programme of practical SEND training workshops for parents and carers of disabled children and those with emerging special educational needs across Sutton. Covering everything from autism and communication to sleep, toileting and preparing for school, the sessions are designed to give parents real, usable strategies - not just information.
"Early support doesn't just change outcomes for children – it changes lives for whole families, helping them feel more resilient, connected and hopeful for the future."
By funding this programme, the Community Fund is removing the cost barrier entirely, so support reaches families regardless of circumstance.
Keeping the Ryan Centre moving
Through Crowdfunder and match funding from the Community Fund, the Ryan Neuro Therapy Centre raised an incredible £7,711 towards its 'Keeping the Ryan Centre Moving' campaign. This independent charity runs a specialist therapy centre in Surrey and South-West London, delivering around 40 classes a week including BoxFit, yogalates, Tilt Table and more, for 140 members living with neurological conditions.
"This funding is absolutely phenomenal - without our physios and trained assistants we wouldn't be able to support our members to maintain and improve their gait, balance, flexibility, strength, mobility and fatigue. Thank you!" - Karen Williams, Physiotherapy Team Manager
The funding helps cover specialist staff costs and vital gym equipment, keeping the centre's doors, and its community, open.
A year of free singing, for easier breathing
Sing Out Sutton Singing for Breathing group smashed its £5,000 Crowdfunder target, raising a final £5,316, boosted by £1,715 in match funding from the Community Fund. Run in partnership with the NHS Pulmonary Rehabilitation service in Wallington, the weekly sessions combine breathing exercises with group singing for people living with chronic lung conditions - and thanks to this funding, they'll stay free for a whole year.
"Breathing difficulties can leave people feeling isolated, frustrated or low. This funding means our Singing for Breathing group can carry on being a lifeline for many – a place to build lasting friendships and learn powerful tools to breathe more freely." - Vicki Hodges, Founder, Sing Out Sutton
