To support those at risk of social isolation, One Vision Housing teamed up with community groups to bring people together aboard the Pride of Sefton. 

Thanks to funding from the housing association’s Community Development Fund, over 140 local people set sail on the wide beam canal boat to travel through docks located within Liverpool’s former UNESCO designated World Heritage Site.

Over two months, 11 trips took place with passengers from Livingstone Street Play and Community Centre, Sean’s Place, Julie Lawson, Netherton Park Community Centre, Gallier House, Kindfulness Coffee Club and Journeymen. 

Whilst on board passengers were treated to lunch as they travelled between the historic Collingwood and Brunswick Docks, with breath-taking sights of the Three Graces and the Royal Albert Dock.

Ian Mitchell, Managing Director of Housing said:

“As part of the award-winning The Sovini Group, we are committed to creating opportunities and changing lives and this brilliant initiative has enabled us to bring the local community together, supporting those at risk of social isolation to improve their mental health.”

Using the HACT Social Value Calculator, which was formed following extensive research to measure the positive impact of social initiatives, One Vision Housing where able to determine that over £215k of social value had been generated thanks to the project.

A total of £10,000 is available each year for voluntary and community groups and applications can be submitted at any time throughout the year and are assessed twice yearly at the end of April and September.

Apply now for a grant through our Community Development Fund.