Starting with Questions: The Origin of Belong in Plymouth

Back in March 2022, the Belong in Plymouth Core Team sparked its first conversations with a simple aim: figure out how to make Plymouth a place where no one feels forgotten. Matt Bell’s early message captured the mood perfectly: “Tentative first try to use this to communicate... See files attached for some interesting info.”

Right from the start, the process was refreshingly unpolished. People were away, juggling priorities, or figuring out how to join the conversation. But that didn’t stop progress. As Matt said later, “We’re not creating anything new—we’re drawing on what’s already happening in Plymouth.” This wasn’t about launching something shiny and new; it was about amplifying the work already taking root across the city.

The Core Team focused early energy on collaboration and funding. Juliette Jackson and Karen at Stoke Village Hub were working on a joint funding application. New roles emerged too—like Karen Pilkington stepping in as Network Connector. “Thanks so much for welcoming me into the fold!” she wrote. “I've been finding my feet, making sense of the programme and finding spots where I can add real value.”

Discussions turned to leadership and capacity building. “We do not shy away from the incredible complexity of loneliness and isolation,” said Matt. Stephane pointed out how critical it was to “get people from across Belong in Plymouth together in a room to do what can only really be done collectively.”

Through all this, one thing stood out: this wasn’t about quick fixes. As Karen put it, “We’re not here to offer quick fixes, but to support each other in bridging gaps across the city.” It was messy, honest, and hopeful—the exact conditions needed to build something that lasts.