Thames Life has successfully secured £250,000 in funding from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, which will enable the organization to continue its innovative, resident-led projects in Barking Riverside and Thames View. The funds will be used to support three key activities: resident-led campaigning, social enterprise, and arts and culture based projects.

Resident-Led Campaigning: Through the Ripple Effect action group, Thames Life will host weekly campaign meetings that bring residents and local groups together. These meetings will allow the community to identify key issues, organize collective actions, and engage with powerholders, such as invited guest speakers and key stakeholders. The Ripple Effect group will also support community-led research and campaigns on housing and environmental issues,  creating change from within the community.

Social Enterprise and Regeneration: Monthly resident planning forums will empower the community to engage in the local planning process, influencing decisions related to green and blue spaces, community assets, and housing. By collaborating with wider stakeholders Thames Life will ensure that residents have a say in the regeneration of the area, promoting long-term, sustainable development that benefits everyone.

Arts and Culture: Thames Life will also run monthly arts events, offering a platform for local residents to showcase their creativity through various mediums, such as dance, poetry, graffiti art, and storytelling. These events are designed to build community connections and inspire action by using art as a vehicle for social change.

This community-driven approach has been refined through our years of experience since 2017, proving its effectiveness in fostering resident-led change. The grant from Esmée Fairbairn will enable Thames Life to continue empowering local residents and shaping the future of the community