Bridgwater

About Bridgwater

Bridgwater is a vibrant and diverse town with a strong community spirit and a rich cultural heritage, including its world-famous carnival. Home to a mix of residents and housing tenures, the town offers a welcoming environment where people can connect, get involved in local activities and take pride in their community.

Priorities

What matters most to the community?

Working together to create safer, stronger and more welcoming communities.
Helping people access skills, training and employment opportunities.
Supporting our customers and communities with the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.
Creating more activities, opportunities and support for children, young people and families.
Making it easier for residents to have their say and shape their community.
Helping people stay active, connected and mentally well.

Who is your Community Development Officer?

Sophie Clark is the Community Development Officer for Bridgwater, who despite being a new face for this area, joined the Community Investment Team back in 2021. Sophie also previously supported our residents as a Financial Responsibility Officer within the Welfare Benefits Team since 2017.

I really enjoy my role as a Community Development Officer as it is a privilege to be able to get involved and support some of the fantastic work taking place in our communities, providing the unique opportunity to work alongside customers and organisations to create change and have a positive impact within our neighbourhoods. Every day is different, and the ideas and creativity of those I work with is both inspiring and motivating.

In my spare time I enjoy walking, reading, and trying new foods. I have also just started weightlifting exercise classes, which have brought a whole new challenge but lots of fun!

Get in touch with Sophie

A portrait image of Sophie Clark in black and white. She is smiling and looking at the camera.

You said, we did

You said: You wanted more activities, opportunities and support for children, young people and families.

We did: We partnered with Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP), with match funding from Magna and LiveWest, to deliver weekly youth sessions in Bridgwater. The programme provides young people with regular activities in a safe and supportive environment, helping them build confidence, develop new skills and form positive relationships. By working collaboratively with local partners, we have increased access to quality youth provision, creating opportunities for young people to stay active, feel connected to their community and fulfil their potential.

You said

Customers said they were struggling with their mental health and felt isolated.

We did

We partnered with Mingle Café, and a local councillor to provide a safe inclusive space for people to attend. During these sessions participants could chat with people within the community, get involved in a few craft sessions and talk 1-1 with the qualified councillor.