The importance of your local community

We know a good home is about more than bricks and mortar. Feeling connected, having places to go, knowing what’s happening locally, and having opportunities to take part all impact our lives and where we live.

We're working with the charity HACT, ecoACTIVE and our residents to create a new community investment strategy.

At a workshop in October 2026, residents told us about what they want from their local communities and where ISHA can work with them to support these communities.

Connections matter

Residents told us that knowing their neighbours, meeting other people  and having opportunities to take part in activities are important to them. For some, simply having somewhere to meet, talk, and share experiences helps create a stronger sense of belonging.

Finding out about local events

Residents told us that finding out about the things happening in their communities isn’t always easy. They also wanted a way to share their knowledge and ideas with others.

People wanted to know more about free and affordable activities, children’s activities, health and wellbeing, community groups, grants and local events. Examples included the community group 'It Takes a Village' and food-sharing projects.

Wellbeing and green spaces

Affordable activities such as yoga, exercise, dance, mindfulness and meditation are important to our residents. As are green spaces. Gardens and local parks can support wellbeing, providing somewhere to relax, de-stress and connect with nature.

Community events and activities

St Luke’s Hall in Islington was praised as a valuable community space offering activities for different ages and interests. 

Residents spoke warmly about the free museum and exhibition trips they had enjoyed (if you'd like to added to list for these, email outreach@isha.co.uk).

Residents were also interested in community grants but wanted clearer information about what funding is available and how to access it.

Feeling safe at home

Feeling connected and feeling safe go hand in hand. 

Many residents described positive relationships with their neighbours, but others raised concerns about anti-social behaviour, possible subletting, and not always knowing who was living in, or visiting, properties nearby. 

One resident said: "Despite the anti-social behaviour issues in our block, there's still a real community spirit. It feels like a little village, even though we're in the middle of London."