We're proud to be part of our vibrant and united community in Waltham Forest. It’s a borough where diversity is our greatest strength and where mutual respect and care creates a place where everyone belongs.  

This spirit is embodied by our incredible voluntary groups, community organisations, and faith networks, who we’re proud to work in collaboration with. Every day they are providing help to those who need it, from providing warm spaces and cost of living support to advice and welcome for sanctuary seekers.  

From community food initiatives and volunteering in local libraries, to supporting migrants and refugees, our residents go above and beyond to help their neighbours. Since starting our volunteering programme, Legends of the Forest, we've had over 8,000 registered volunteers making a difference in their communities, and we have an amazing network of Community Health Champions who volunteer to support their community to be healthier, more active and connect residents with local services.    

Our support for migrants and refugees is guided by a dedicated steering group, bringing together community organisations and individuals with lived experience of forced migration. At the heart of this group is Averil Pooten-Watan, co-chair of our Borough of Sanctuary steering committee and church warden at St Barnabas Church in Walthamstow. The Borough of Sanctuary reflects our commitment to being a place of welcome for all. One of its key initiatives is the Migrant Community Drop-in, where a range of services and passionate volunteers come together to ensure refugees and migrants feel supported. 

You can hear more from Averil on her role.