Dami, Clement James.
Clement James is an incredibly rewarding place to work. It can also be hard to step away from, because the need in this community is vast. For many people locally, there simply aren’t many spaces where they feel safe, understood, or that they truly belong. Here, we try to create something different a positive space where people feel welcomed as they are.
We work hard not to ask questions for the sake of it. People know when they are being processed rather than genuinely listened to. If that was the case, they simply wouldn’t come back. Many people who feel marginalised are already expecting barriers to be put up, so we try to strike a careful balance offering community, education, employment and wellbeing support in a way that feels respectful and understanding.
The challenges facing our community are complex and wide-ranging. We see young people who are carers, families living with deep poverty, and the daily realities that come with it many of which are far beyond what any single organisation can fix. That can be difficult. What we try to be instead is consistent. An oasis of sorts, in the middle of complex circumstances, where people can find support and take steps forward on their own journeys.
KCSC plays an important role in supporting the voluntary sector across RBKC. Over the years we’ve seen many smaller and emerging organisations develop and grow, often with support and guidance from KCSC along the way.
Our team regularly attends the Health and Wellbeing meetings, where we learn from visiting contributors and from one another. Historically we’ve also been part of the Healthier Futures partnership, which brought together more than 15 organisations working collectively to deliver services across North Kensington. More recently, KCSC supported us with our DEI evaluation, providing independent guidance and perspective that has been invaluable.
Simply knowing they are there matters. It means that when a challenge arises, I know I can pick up the phone and be connected to the right people. Supporting communities like ours takes more than one organisation it takes a whole network working together.
And that is what makes it possible for local people to find opportunities, support and a place where they belong.