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The story of Can Do Bristol

Can Do Bristol was created to connect volunteers to volunteering opportunities at a city scale.

Initiated by Di Robinson, Service Director for Neighbourhoods & Communities at Bristol City Council, Di's long-term ambition was to empower local residents to solve local problems using available community resources.

Bristol City Council identified that our community software offers many opportunities for people and groups to connect and engage, including volunteer management. They licensed our platform in 2016 and have worked with us ever since.

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In 2020, the platform helped the Council organise a citywide volunteer response to Covid-19.

They mobilised 4,000 volunteers to meet urgent service priorities, providing direct support to 8,718 residents and reaching out to 15,281 shielding residents.

Community groups also used the platform to self-organise, leading to some remarkable stories of residents delivering groceries and businesses providing warm meals to the elderly.

The people of Bristol show kindness every day. Can Do Bristol played a crucial role in supporting the huge volunteer efforts that quickly emerged to help our shielding residents.

Cllr Asher Craig, Deputy Mayor of Bristol

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The philosophy behind Can Do Bristol is that everyone has something to offer.

Big businesses, for example, may be able to offer expertise, resources, funding or equipment; while small community groups often offer support and services to those in need. The key is to bring people together around a common goal.

Our vision for a collaborative, cross-sector approach has played a key role in shaping the 'Can Do Bristol' approach and influencing the Council's thinking in this direction.

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Over 15,000 people and businesses are supporting volunteering across Bristol.

Highlights:

  • 4,000 volunteers support citywide Covid response.
  • 300 volunteers help children aged 5-7 with their reading.
  • 20,000 unique visits per month.

Can Do Bristol helps thousands of people in the city to connect with their neighbours. It enables and celebrates community action across the city.

Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol

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