The final episode of Community Unboxed series one returns to the heart of Norwich, exploring the Mancroft (City Centre) area and the many ways community connection is growing.
Throughout the episode, we hear from residents, volunteers and community organisers who are creating welcoming, supportive spaces simply by bringing people together around shared interests, care and purpose. The stories show that community does not rely on bricks and mortar alone, but on people choosing to show up for one another.
At St George’s, what began as a small carers group has evolved into the Hotspot, a vibrant, volunteer-led space welcoming dozens of people each week. Founder Brian reflects on the sense of belonging it offers, while also highlighting the ongoing challenge of sustaining the space without secure funding. With the building in need of renovation, the future of these groups depends on continued grant support.
The episode also visits the Colgate Singers for Wellbeing, where music has become a powerful tool for connection and healing. Members share how singing together has helped them navigate grief, isolation and major life changes. For some, particularly those new to Norwich later in life, the group has opened the door to friendships at a time when making new connections can feel daunting.
Creativity is another recurring theme. Abigail Taylor shares how her passion for the arts, and frustration at the lack of creative opportunities available to her daughter, led her to start an affordable after-school art club. What began with just four children around her kitchen table has grown into a regular group of twenty, offering young people space to build confidence, skills and a sense of achievement at a time when arts education is disappearing from schools.
The episode also highlights Penny Chung’s community garden at Sherbourne Place. Sparked during lockdown by the simple act of cleaning a fence, the project quickly drew in neighbours armed with pressure washers and gardening tools. With raised beds and council permission now in place, the garden has become a shared space for people who previously lived side by side without ever speaking. Penny shares how involving local young people from the outset helped transform the space into one that everyone feels responsible for.
Community Unboxed series one closes with a clear message: community is already happening all around us, often quietly and with little recognition. When people are supported to act on what they care about, connection follows.
Thanks to our supporters and project partners Norwich City Council, Norwich Health and Wellbeing Partnership and Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board and the Community Voices programme.