05/06/2026
At the start of this year, Royanne became the Local Area Coordinator for Old Dean and St Michaels and she has spent this time focusing on building connections and a presence in the community! ✨
Reflecting on her first 6 months as the Local Area Coordinator Royanne says,
💬 “One of the things I love most about being an LAC is how personal and unique the work is; it allows me to draw on years of community experience while still being authentically myself. My first months were all about getting to know the area, the people, and the heartbeat of the community. I visited weekly groups: from coffee mornings and baby groups to mental health forums, and spent time meeting professionals, partners and new contacts. I made sure people understood the LAC approach and how we walk alongside residents who may not be connected to statutory services, helping them work towards their own vision of a good life.
Being present has meant getting involved wherever needed: helping set up sessions, serving refreshments, supporting food stalls, joining breakfast mornings at the church, and chatting with new faces. Walking the area with residents has been invaluable, giving me insight into local strengths and challenges from their perspective.
Even something as simple as having my photo on posters and postcards has made a difference. Residents have told me it helped them feel reassured and more comfortable approaching me. The relationships I’ve built over these months mean people now see me as part of the community. Partners and residents alike have shared that having an LAC feels like a real asset and that sense of belonging is exactly what I hoped to achieve”.
Well done to Royanne on a fantastic start as the Local Area Coordinator! We hope the community continues to flourish with your support and guidance! 🌱
