Community Kettle Puts Cosham on the national stage once again
A thriving Portsmouth community hub has once again received national recognition, placing Cosham firmly on the map for community spirit, inclusion and innovation.
Voluntary Directors Kimberley Morgan-Hilliar and Nicole Heard proudly represented Community Kettle in Manchester this week, where the organisation was recognised at a national event celebrating outstanding community-led initiatives from across the UK.
The visit marked another significant milestone for the popular Cosham-based community space, which has become a lifeline for local residents through its welcoming atmosphere, affordable activities and commitment to tackling loneliness and social isolation.
For Kimberley and Nicole, the trip to Manchester was about much more than receiving recognition. It was an opportunity to showcase the strength of Portsmouth’s community spirit on a national stage. Surrounded by organisations from across the country, the pair were proud to highlight the work being carried out in Cosham and the difference local volunteers make every day.
Community Kettle was celebrated for its dedication to bringing people together, creating meaningful opportunities for connection, and building a stronger, more resilient community. The recognition follows a remarkable year of growth, with the hub expanding its programme of activities, supporting hundreds of local people and strengthening partnerships across Portsmouth.
Speaking after the event, voluntary director Nicole Heard said: “To be recognised nationally for a second consecutive year is absolutely incredible. Everything we achieve is made possible by our volunteers, supporters, members and the wider community who believe in what we do. This recognition belongs to all of them.”
Fellow director Kimberley Morgan-Hilliar added: “Community Kettle was created to ensure everyone has somewhere they can feel welcome, valued and connected. To see our work acknowledged on a national stage is both humbling and inspiring. It motivates us to continue growing and reaching even more people who may benefit from what we offer.”
Since opening, Community Kettle has developed into far more than a café or meeting space. It has become a community hub where friendships are formed, skills are shared and people of all ages can access support, activities and opportunities to get involved.
The Manchester event brought together community organisations from across the country, showcasing projects that are making a real difference in people’s lives. Community Kettle’s inclusion among those recognised demonstrates the impact grassroots community organisations can have in addressing local challenges and creating positive change.
Residents across Portsmouth have welcomed the news, with many recognising the vital role Community Kettle plays in supporting wellbeing, reducing isolation and creating a sense of belonging.
Nicole added: “When we first started Community Kettle, we simply wanted to create a place where people felt welcome and connected. To be in Manchester, receiving national recognition for the second year running, was a moment of real pride. It shows what can happen when a community comes together and supports one another.”
As the organisation looks ahead, the team remain focused on expanding opportunities for local people while continuing to build on the success that has earned Community Kettle national recognition for the second year running.
For the volunteers, directors and supporters behind the project, the award is not only a celebration of achievements to date but also a reminder that community, kindness and connection remain at the heart of everything they do.
As Community Kettle continues to grow, the team hopes this latest success will inspire even more people to get involved, whether as volunteers, members, partners or supporters. With exciting plans ahead, the nationally recognised community hub remains committed to keeping kindness, connection and community at the heart of everything it does.
Community Kettle continues to run a wide range of affordable activities, events and support initiatives from its Cosham base, welcoming residents of all ages and backgrounds to get involved.
As Portsmouth celebrates its centenary year, Community Kettle is proud to represent the city on a national stage, showcasing the community spirit that makes Portsmouth special.