Charities Join Forces To Strengthen Support For Gosport Community

Community First has merged with Gosport Voluntary Action to safeguard vital community services amid growing funding challenges.

The merger aims to reduce duplication of services in the town and ease the pressure on local authorities facing funding shortfalls, ensuring crucial services like home help and supported volunteering can continue to thrive.

The merged organisation will operate as Community First and continue to provide services to people in the community as well as support groups to recruit volunteers, secure external funding, and receive expert advice on governance, business planning, and training.

The Gosport Community Lottery will continue to offer participants a chance to win up to £25,000 each week, with ticket sales directly benefiting local community groups.

Tim Houghton, Chief Executive of Community First, said: “Strong local voluntary organisations and charities are needed more than ever as we look to support and complement our local authorities.

“By bringing together the strengths of both organisations, we’re not only ensuring that vital services remain accessible to those who need them most in our neighbourhoods, but we’re also building a more resilient support network for the future.”

Ian Reeves, Chair of Gosport Voluntary Action, said: “The merger reflects our shared vision to work to support our community. By pooling our resources, expertise and, most importantly our people, we will be better equipped to serve our voluntary and community groups and deliver services that make a positive difference to Gosport Borough residents now and in the future.”

Community First’s services already in the Gosport area, such as the local community bus connecting Gosport with surrounding areas, will continue to operate, ensuring residents have access to reliable transport.