Chagossian Community DevelopmentSupporting the empowerment and integration of the Chagossian community through tailored programs and resources.

Chagossian Community Development

Crawley Community Action has supported the Chagossian community in Crawley for many years. We have been working closely with local Chagossian-led groups and community leaders to help build their knowledge, capacity, skills, and connections so that the needs of the members they serve can be met more effectively. We have played an influential role in highlighting the multiple challenges the community experiences in our partnership work with key local stakeholders, such as Crawley Borough Council, West Sussex County Council and other agencies seeking to address the social, economic and health inequalities of the local Chagossian population.

With a grant from the Chagossian Fund, administered by Sussex Community Foundation and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, CCA has employed a Community Organiser to develop the considerable assets, passion and commitment that already exists locally to empower the local Chagossian community and create a culture of self-sufficiency amongst local Chagossian-led groups. The role will involve building strong and purposeful relationships with relevant trusted partners, community groups and service providers, engage in a range of activities aimed at improving the quality of life for Chagossian residents and enhancing their overall well-being. Initially, this project will span a period of eighteen months, starting from April 2025 until the end of September 2026.

The project plan will include the delivery of the following activities:

Community Organising: Facilitating community meetings, forums, and events to promote civic engagement, participation, and collective action.

Capacity and Capability Building: Providing advice and assistance to community leaders, management committees and directors to enhance their skills, knowledge, and capacity and resources/funding to address local issues.

Understanding Needs: Conducting surveys, interviews, and community meetings to identify the needs, challenges, and priorities of the community and the various groups that serve them.

Developing Organisational Best Practice:  Assisting projects with their long-term strategies and action plans to help achieve longer-term sustainability as well as the importance of transparency and accountability.

Connecting Key People: Building relationships and collaborating with various stakeholders including residents, community organisations, local businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

Advocacy: Representing the interests of the community and advocating for policies, programmes, and resources that promote social justice, equity, and inclusivity.

Communication: Communicating with the public through newsletters, websites, social media, and other channels to keep residents informed about community activities, opportunities, and resources.

Cultural and Social Programming: Organising cultural events, events, and social activities that celebrate Chagossian heritage, foster community pride, and strengthen social bonds.