We were delighted to be joined by around 50 attendees representing diverse local communities in Trafford at our members meeting on 23rd April 2026 hosted by Sale Moor Community Partnership.
The meeting celebrated the dedication of local people who work tirelessly to strengthen their communities and marked the launch of the Trafford Live Well Spaces of Hope and Connection Programme.
Sale Moor Community Partnership
The Collective received a warm welcome from Sale Moor Community Partnership (SMCP) who exist to promote education, wellbeing, environmental improvement and prosperity for community benefit in Sale Moor. The team took this opportunity to share inspiring examples of their work with us, including initiatives like the homework club, music and art and special attention to the food club, which highlight the impact of simple, community-led support. You can find out more about SMCP on their website here.
Trafford Live Well Spaces of Hope and Connection Programme.
Funded by £16.5 million from The National Lottery Community Fund, this four-year Greater Manchester initiative will support the development of over 100 inclusive, community-led spaces where people can connect, belong, and access everyday support. The programme prioritises communities facing the greatest inequalities and aims to strengthen social infrastructure, increase community power, and build local resilience.
Beyond funding, the programme focuses on shifting power to communities—ensuring local people shape decisions and investment. It also supports collaboration between VCFSE organisations, public services, and residents, while embedding equity and inclusion.
Key aims include:
- Shifting Systems
- Growing Community Power
- Strengthening the VCFSE Sector in Trafford and across GM
You can view/download the presentation slides below.
The programme is part of the wider Greater Manchester Live Well approach and builds on two years of partnership work. It aligns with regional priorities around prevention, inclusion, and economic development.
Overall, this represents a significant opportunity in Trafford to invest in grassroots community infrastructure, support local leadership, and create more connected, fairer communities across Greater Manchester.
Speech and Language Approaches in Trafford
We were thankful for the contribution of Valerie Grey from Trafford who gave an insightful presentation in speech and language approaches . Valerie is keen to hear from VCFSE colleagues who work across the sector to ensure the valuable work that is happening in communities is recognised and valued within the wider public sector offer . You can contact Valerie direct at: Valerie.Gray@trafford.gov.uk
Interactive Workshop: Strengthening Community Participation
We also hosted a group session exploring how we listen to and work alongside our communities, sharing experiences, challenges, and practical ideas. Below are some notes from the groups:
Next meeting
The next Trafford Collective meeting will be held on 16th July 2026 — please save the date and join us, it would be great to see you there!