Chelsea Foundation takes a moment to reflect on the impact of last year’s Magic of Blue campaign, which brought communities together to spread joy, tackle loneliness and support those most in need during the festive season.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of Chelsea supporters, partners and the wider community, more than 3,200 gifts were donated and over £100,000 was raised to support charities working across South West London and beyond.
Grants have now been awarded to four local organisations – Age UK Kensington & Chelsea, Shepherd’s Star, Fulham Good Neighbours and Katherine Low Settlement – each dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing loneliness, isolation and hardship. The funding will help these organisations make a meaningful difference within our communities.
Shepherd’s Star
Shepherd’s Star works to combat loneliness and social isolation by connecting people with opportunities for friendship, support and community engagement.
Desirée Shepherd, Director and Co-founder of Shepherd’s Star, said: “We are absolutely delighted and deeply grateful to be partnering with Chelsea Foundation through the Magic of Blue. Having our work recognised and supported by an organisation of its stature is incredibly encouraging. Their generous support will help us reach more people experiencing loneliness across South West London, and we look forward to the meaningful impact we can make together.”
Age UK Kensington & Chelsea
Age UK Kensington & Chelsea supports older people to remain connected, independent and valued within their communities.
Jess Millwood, CEO of Age UK Kensington & Chelsea, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Chelsea Foundation for this generous grant through the Magic of Blue campaign, and to every Chelsea fan and supporter who donated. Your generosity will make a real and important difference to older people in our community.
“Sadly, loneliness is something we see every day in our work, and in Kensington and Chelsea almost 9,000 people over the age of 65 live alone. This support will help Age UK Kensington and Chelsea provide regular companionship and conversation to older people, along with the reassurance of knowing that someone cares.
“That kind of meaningful connection can make a huge difference, and we’re proud to be working with the Chelsea Foundation to help more older people feel valued, supported and less alone. From all of us — thank you.”
Fulham Good Neighbours
Fulham Good Neighbours has spent decades supporting older and vulnerable residents by creating opportunities for social connection, reducing isolation and helping people remain active members of their local community.
Flora Taylor, CEO of Fulham Good Neighbours commented on the grant: “The support from Chelsea Foundation will help ensure even more individuals can benefit from these opportunities, particularly during periods when loneliness and isolation can be most challenging, we are really pleased to be working with the Foundation and we are excited for the future.”
Katherine Low Settlement
Katherine Low Settlement works alongside diverse communities in Battersea, delivering programmes that promote inclusion, wellbeing and social connection for people of all ages.
Sarah Gibb, CEO of Katherine Low Settlement commented: “We are incredibly grateful to Chelsea Foundation and the Magic of Blue campaign for this generous grant. The funding will help us strengthen initiatives that bring people together, support those experiencing loneliness and create more opportunities for meaningful engagement within our local community. Through our programmes, we empower people to build confidence, develop relationships and access the support networks that can make a real difference to their lives. This grant will enable us to continue creating welcoming and inclusive spaces where everyone feels connected, supported and valued.”
Laura Cordingley, CEO of Chelsea Foundation, added: “The Magic of Blue campaign demonstrated the extraordinary impact that can be achieved when our supporters, partners and communities come together with a shared purpose. Through the generosity of everyone involved, we have been able to support organisations delivering life-changing work to tackle loneliness and social isolation.
“The stories from each charity show how important connection, companionship and community are to wellbeing. We are proud to have supported their work and look forward to seeing the continued impact these funds will have on the lives of those who need it most.”
As we looking forward to this coming season, the success of Magic of Blue serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the difference that can be made when a community comes together to support others.
