During her Mayoral year, Cllr Jacky Tustain is raising funds for a Community Chest to support local charities and community groups that promote physical and mental wellbeing across the borough, helping people feel better, more connected and less isolated.

The aim is to help create a borough where everyone can feel part of something positive, whether through exercise, music, creative activities, or simply meeting others at a friendly local event.

Funds raised will be awarded as grants to organisations running projects that bring people together and improve wellbeing. This could include mental health support, fitness sessions, music, dance and singing groups, arts and crafts, intergenerational activities, community festivals or other welcoming spaces that help reduce isolation.

The grants programme will be managed by Basingstoke Voluntary Action, working with a Mayor’s Community Chest Grants Panel chaired by the Mayor.