2023 Inspirational Award 2nd Place

The podcast focuses on Ellingham Village Hall and its journey from being an outdated, underused space to a vibrant community hub. The guests, Chris Stevenson and Gustav McLeod, share how they led the Village Hall Committee through extensive fundraising efforts, overcoming challenges like rising construction costs, opposition to demolishing the old hall, and navigating a tight budget. Key moments include:

1. Community Support & Feedback: Despite some initial resistance, around 88% of the community supported the hall's rebuild, which was driven by surveys and in-person consultations.
2. Fundraising & Partnerships: The team secured significant funds, notably from the National Lottery and local trusts, including creative fundraising efforts like crowdfunding and donations from community members.
3. Construction Phases: The project was done in phases due to rising costs, with the team adjusting plans as needed. This incremental approach helped them gain additional funding, including for sustainable features like solar panels.
4. Post-construction Success: The hall is now a thriving venue for a range of community events such as toddlers’ groups, art clubs, parties, and weddings. It’s also a "warm hub" in emergencies, providing shelter and power during extreme weather.
5. Future Plans: The team is working on further improvements, such as expanding storage space to accommodate growing community needs.

The podcast highlights teamwork, resilience, and the importance of a strong community spirit in bringing the project to life.