The West Kent Community Chest is one way we support our residents and local groups to build successful and resilient communities.
We provide financial assistance to help get project ideas off the ground and bring communities together – this could be through running activities, developing an existing project, or starting something completely new.
Swanley's Shed is one of our recent recipients of a grant from the Chest. The project is aimed at those who have retired or who are currently out of work. It is also open to those who wish to develop a new skill or want to share their skills with others. The aim of the Shed is to connect people with others while participating in group, community or individual projects. It is to also maintain or improve individuals’ health and well-being. 
The project applied for funding to purchase tools, which would increase the amount of work they can produce and allow more individuals to join the project.
Christine Holdbrook, Swanley Community Development Officer said: “It's an amazing space, with wonderful members making a difference in the community that they live in. It's lovely to witness the progress they have made and have no doubt that they will outgrow the space sooner rather than later.”
Members of the Shed are currently making bird boxes, along with other woodwork projects. They have a regular bike maintenance workshop and plan to start a gardening and sewing group soon too. 
If Swanley Shed sounds like something you’ll be interested in, please do go along and meet the group! The shed is located on New Barn Road in Swanley Park, Swanley.
For more information about the Community Chest, visit our website at www.westkent.org/communitychest