Funding Secured by Lowestoft Community Group

Wednesday, 17 December 2025 06:00

Members of the team at Kirkley People's Forum in Lowestoft

A community group at the heart of Kirkley has secured new funding to keep its work supporting local residents firmly on track.

Kirkley People’s Forum, based at the Kirkley Centre on London Road South in Lowestoft, has been awarded more than £17,000 from the National Lottery. The funding, alongside continued sponsorship from Lowestoft Town Council, provides security for the group’s work over the next two years.

The forum is run by more than 20 local volunteers who aim to give residents and young people a stronger voice in decisions affecting the area. The group regularly reviews its priorities to ensure they reflect what matters most to people living in Kirkley.

Weekly activities include a youth group, photography sessions and technology support. A popular open drop-in, Kirkley Chat, welcomes up to 30 people and is supported by regular visits from local police officers, councillors and representatives from partner agencies, helping residents access advice and raise concerns locally.

Kirkley People’s Forum also supports residents to set up and lead their own independent groups. These include Friends of Kensington Gardens, Friends of Fen Park, the Pocket Parks Group, TrueColours, Suffolk Sober Spaces and a recovery support group. The work focuses on tackling inequalities in an area facing high levels of deprivation.

Chairperson David Lawrence said: “We are absolutely delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund and Lowestoft Town Council have recognised our hard work in the community. Our project is now secure for the next two years! It is an exciting opportunity for us to make sure we can continue to make a positive difference in our community”

Residents interested in getting involved or starting a group can contact the forum by email at info@kirkleypeoplesforum.org.uk.