Community leaders, NHS partners and local organisations came together at St John's Waterloo for the latest Be Well Showcase, celebrating the growing impact of community-led action on health, wellbeing and connection across South London.
The event brought together members of the Be Well network with Paul Calaminus, Chief Executive of South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, and Jane Bailey, Chair of the Trust, to hear directly from organisations helping communities thrive.
From supporting older people to creating opportunities for young people, and from working with migrant communities to strengthening connections within Latin American and Islamic communities, the showcase highlighted the breadth and diversity of the Be Well programme.
Projects featured included Empoderando Familias, St John's Waterloo, Friends of Brixton Library, Silver Socials at Church of the Holy Spirit, English for Action, Lewisham Islamic Centre, Burgess Sport, Kelly Avenue and Community Salay. Together, they demonstrated how trusted community organisations are helping people build relationships, improve wellbeing and access support in ways that work for them.
A key theme throughout the day was the importance of connection. Speakers reflected on the role that welcoming community spaces play in reducing isolation, building confidence and creating a sense of belonging. Whether through social activities, faith groups, sports, family support or learning opportunities, the message was clear: strong communities are fundamental to good mental health and wellbeing.
Participants also highlighted the value of English language classes. Beyond learning a language, community-based ESOL programmes help people build confidence, make new connections, understand local services and become more active in community life. For many people, they provide an important gateway to wider opportunities and support.
Roundtable discussions explored how services can work more closely together to make support easier to navigate. Participants discussed the importance of building stronger links between health services, housing, primary care and community organisations, while ensuring that local knowledge and community leadership remain at the heart of solutions.
There was also a strong focus on inclusion. Conversations highlighted the challenges created by digital exclusion and the need to ensure that services are accessible, culturally responsive and designed around the needs of different communities.
Reflecting on the day, Paul Calaminus spoke about the importance of community, connection and collective action. He highlighted how some of the biggest challenges facing society can only be addressed when communities, public services and local organisations work together. The showcase reflected a shared sense of hope, unity and determination to take action together to improve lives across South London.
The event captured the same spirit that runs throughout South London Listens: listening deeply, building partnerships and turning community insight into meaningful action. It also demonstrated the growing strength of the Be Well network and the extraordinary contribution community organisations continue to make across South London.
Read the Impact Report
The Be Well Showcase follows the publication of the South London Listens Impact Report 2025-26, which highlights how communities, voluntary organisations and public services are working together to tackle inequalities, strengthen mental health and create lasting change across South London.