We want everyone in Waltham Forest to have access to the opportunities they need to live the life they choose. We’re working with partners and volunteers to support residents to find skills and employment that suits them, improve financial wellbeing and access the support they are entitled to through initiatives like Waltham Forest Max community drop-ins, launching in Autumn 2025. 

Through partnerships with local employers like Soho Theatre Walthamstow, Forest Cinemas and Barts NHS, hundreds of local people have secured employment in creative industries and other sectors, supported by programmes like Connect to Work and Healthcare Horizons.   

Volunteers and community groups play a vital role. We know that residents often turn to trusted local voices for support, so we work hand-in-hand with community groups to amplify their impact. Together, we run popular workshops that equip community partners with the tools to help residents increase their income through access to government support and grants.   

A great example is the Walthamstow Welcomes Café, a welcoming, volunteer-led space at St Mary’s Welcome Centre, which we support with staff, equipment, and expert guidance on income support. 

We’re also proud of our teams of inspiring volunteers. Hear from Husna, a volunteer at our Waltham Forest Max drop-ins, about her role in supporting local people to thrive.