The word “community” is used so often today, it’s reached buzzword status. As a result, it’s easy to lose sight of the importance of community – and how to develop communities that add purpose and joy to people’s lives.

So, what is a community partnership in simple terms?

It is a group of people with diverse skills, experience and approaches who all share a common goal. That shared goal stems from an interest, a passion, and a commitment to sustainable social change.

Barnabas Safe & Sound believe that in building a strong community – one that enriches the lives of its members, everyone can feel a shared sense of trust, connection and caring for one another. Embedded within this are our values: Trust, Courage, and Independence.

We work hard to foster relationships with individuals, local businesses, and community organisations who recognise the importance of these values and share our vision for a community which embraces young people, valuing their thoughts, feelings, and opinions. We welcome the opportunity of partnering with local businesses and community organisations who want to:

  • Support our work, share our story, and champion young people.
  • Help drive growth, development, and sustainability.
  • Inspire us and open our minds to diverse ideas, opportunities, and viewpoints.
  • Support the charity to build greater confidence in its services throughout the community.

If you feel these fit well with your personal values, or your Corporate Social Responsibility statement, we would love to hear from you. In return we will offer:

  • A lasting, positive relationship with the Barnabas team, personalising your support – this may be financial, or by way of materials, resources, and services.
  • Certification of support.
  • Recognition on our website via our dedicated Community Partnerships page.
  • Acknowledgement of support on our social media channels.
  • Quarterly newsletters via email.
  • Coverage on our “spotlight” board outside our office (main road).
  • Invites to our events, fundraisers, and Annual General Meeting.

Existing partners

Co-op Local Community Fund

We are currently partnered with the Co-op Local Community Fund after being selected as one of their chosen charities last October. Co-op members can select Barnabas as their charity cause, and every time they purchase co-op brand goods, Barnabas receive 2p for every £1 spent. The Co-op also have their own Local Charity Pioneers to help champion local causes, supporting the charity to maximise potential fundraising.

CEO Sleepout

Barnabas were proud to partner with CEO Sleepout for a 2nd year in June – bringing together like-minded, kind-hearted business people to raise vital funds, reducing poverty and raising awareness of homelessness in Northumberland, founded by the wonder that is Bianca Robinson, recently recognised as being one of Teesside’s most inspirational people.

Morpeth Town Council

Barnabas Safe & Sound are proud to partner with Morpeth Town Council who support our charitable objectives, by offering financial support and facilities. Our recent Summer 2023 programme was delivered in direct partnership with MTC, enabling us to offer mixed activities including paddle sports, climbing, archery and geocaching – not to mention providing a healthy lunch to young people within the “free schools meals” remit.

Greater Morpeth Development Trust

A relatively new project, Barnabas teamed up with GMDT to offer an amazing “man shed” concept right in the heart of Morpeth – but opening this out to all ages and genders – a truly inclusive project where young and old can work together, learn new skills, repair cherished items, maintain bikes – you name it, we will try to make or repair it!

Hays Travel: York Christmas Markets Bus Trip

The lovely team at Hays Travel (Morpeth) recently selected Barnabas as their chosen charity for their upcoming York Christmas Markets Bus Trip on 10th December 2023. The team are working hard to promote the event, which will include lots of fun and games during the journey.

Could you assume the role of our upcoming community partnership?

Contact Gill Monaghan on 01670 517721 or email gill.monaghan@barnabasneorg.uk

*For a full list of funders please refer to our Annual Accounts within the Resources section of our website.