Sunderland Floral Arts Club

Background

Sunderland Floral Art Club (SFAC), a friendly and inclusive group based in East Sunderland, aims to foster community and well-being through floral art. The club, composed primarily of elderly members, many of whom live alone or manage disabilities, serves as a social and emotional anchor. Members support one another, creating a network akin to an extended family. However, in early 2024, SFAC recognised challenges in sustaining its impact and approached the Sunderland Voluntary Sector Alliance (SVSA) for assistance.

Challenges

SFAC faced several obstacles, including:

1. Limited Access to Funding: Modern funding application processes were challenging for the group.
2. Need for Enhanced Exposure: SFAC acknowledged a need for improved outreach to attract new members.
3. Declining Membership and Support for Carers: Membership dwindled post-pandemic, especially among members who needed caregiver support.
4. Need for Broader Engagement: SFAC wanted to expand activities to cater to more diverse interests within the community.
5. Impact Measurement: The group lacked structured methods for tracking and reporting their social impact.

Solution and Approach

Over a six-month period, SVSA worked with SFAC on a support plan targeting these key areas:

1. Funding Strategy
   SVSA helped SFAC streamline their funding efforts, guiding them in applying for small, manageable funding streams. This ensured that membership fees remained affordable and supported the group's mission. Three funding applications were successfully completed, securing financial support to help sustain SFAC's activities and goals.
2. Enhanced Exposure and Rebranding
   SFAC updated its promotional materials and adopted a new look to enhance appeal. A social media strategy was developed to reach potential new members and build online engagement. This modernised presence improved community awareness and visibility of SFAC's events and activities.
3. Strengthening Membership and Support Network for Carers
   Proactive recruitment drives aimed at attracting new members and supporting carers helped revitalize the club. These efforts encouraged not only participation in floral art but also created opportunities for building friendships, increasing confidence, and fostering inclusivity for members and caregivers.
4. Broadening Engagement Activities
   SFAC expanded its events to include social gatherings, community flower festivals, and excursions. These collective activities provided members with enjoyable and meaningful experiences, further solidifying the club's sense of community.
5. Establishing Impact Evaluation
   SVSA introduced tailored evaluation tools, such as feedback forms and social media surveys, allowing SFAC to capture member feedback and monitor engagement. This data enabled SFAC to measure and showcase the positive impact on members' lives, providing insights for future growth.

Outcomes

The collaborative efforts led to significant and measurable improvements:

• Membership Growth: SFAC experienced a noticeable increase in both members and visitors.
• Community Building: New friendships and support networks emerged, strengthening SFAC's community impact.
• Skill Development: Members gained new skills through workshops and community events, including flower festivals.
• Giving Back: SFAC members began participating in fundraising events, supporting local charities, and fostering a community-oriented spirit.

The Sunderland Floral Art Club's evolution has fostered a supportive, enriching environment for an aging population in Sunderland. Through its collaboration with SVSA, SFAC has solidified its role as a hub of positivity and community connection, bridging generations and providing lifelong value to its members.