Felixstowe Town Council hosted its first Charities and Voluntary Groups Summit on 20 February 2025, bringing together charities, voluntary organisations, and community groups for a day of workshops, collaboration, and networking.
A central theme that emerged from the summit was the need for a shared platform where local organisations could easily connect, share opportunities, and support one another. In response, the Felixstowe Charities Network has been created — a free, easy-to-use online hub designed specifically for the town’s voluntary and charitable sector.
Accessible at www.felixstowe-charities-network.org, the website offers a wide range of tools to strengthen collaboration and community impact. Local groups can:
Promote their work by sharing news and updates
Advertise events and encourage attendance from the community
Recruit volunteers through a dedicated vacancies section
Share resources and equipment, reducing duplication and saving costs
Access funding information, including guidance on available grants and how to apply
Connect with other organisations, building lasting partnerships and stronger networks
The platform has been designed with simplicity and accessibility in mind, ensuing that organisations of all sizes, including those which may be smaller with limited resources, can benefit fully.
David Gledhill, Chairman of the Landguard Trust and leader of the project, said:
“This new network is about making it easier for our charities and voluntary groups to work together, share what they’re doing, and make the most of the incredible energy we have in Felixstowe. By giving local organisations a simple, shared platform, we can reduce duplication, open up new opportunities, and ultimately deliver even greater benefits for our community.”
Felixstowe Town Council has allocated £500 from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to fund the creation and promotion of the Felixstowe Charities Network. By supporting this initiative, the Council aims to empower local organisations, encourage community participation, and ensure that Felixstowe’s voluntary sector continues to thrive.
Councillor Corrine Franklin, Mayor of Felixstowe, added
“This will be a fantastic way for our local charities and community organisations, to share their ideas, information and to learn from the experience of other Charities. It will provide a gateway to share and optimise resources”.
Local charities and community organisations are encouraged to register and make use of the hub. Feedback and suggestions to further improve its functionality are warmly welcomed at admin@felixstowecharitiesnetwork.com.