St Sampson’s Church and The Zone Win Share of £2m National Fund

What does a small church near Callington have in common with a wellbeing hub in Downderry? Both have just been handed a share of a £2 million national pot, and the money is heading straight into walls, radiators and the kind of unglamorous fixes that keep community buildings open through the winter.

St Sampson’s Church in South Hill, near Callington, and The Zone Health and Wellbeing Hub in Downderry are among 212 organisations across England to receive funding through the Common Ground Award. The grants form part of the Labour government’s wider push to strengthen community spaces and bring people together.

The cash will go towards renovations and heating at both sites.

A warmer church for South Hill

Judith Ayers, Church Lead at St Sampson’s Church, South Hill, said the funding had already made a tangible difference.

“St Sampson’s Church, South Hill is a small but thriving Church with a big vision. We are thrilled with this funding, which has helped create a wonderful, warm comfortable space for all the community to use. Last year the vicar stated; everything St Sampson’s does is for the community. We look forward to welcoming users when the work is completed in a few weeks.”

New owners, old heating at The Zone

The Zone in Downderry only took ownership of its building in December, and the heating was one of the first problems on the list.

Adrian Kemp, Chair of Trustees at The Zone Health and Wellbeing Hub, said: “The Zone is delighted that the government are kindly supporting the Zone Health and Wellbeing CIO. This will help make the building warm and improve the heating. We recently purchased the building in December but the heating just isn’t up to standard. We are so grateful for the help.”

MP welcomes recognition for local groups

Anna Gelderd, MP for South East Cornwall, has welcomed the awards as part of her ongoing work visiting community organisations across the constituency, from youth clubs to creative spaces.

Anna said: “In South East Cornwall, we have so many fantastic community organisations, each playing their role in supporting local people, whether that’s our young people or our communities with mental health support. It’s great that St Sampson’s Church and The Zone have been recognised for their incredible contributions through this initiative.

“We have a real community spirit in our area, so it’s great that the Labour government is supporting projects to continue their important work and provide opportunities to expand.”

The 212 successful organisations were chosen for their work breaking down barriers and offering places where people can connect.