Community group that goes ‘above and beyond’ wins our Communities Together Award for 2025

At this years Platform Community Heroes Awards we were delighted to present the Communities Together Award to the Wintern Court Community Group in Gainsborough, in recognition of its exceptional work and dedication to build a stronger, more connected community, both locally and across the wider area. 

Formed in 2019, and led by its current committee since 2024, the group has gone from strength to strength. With a spirit of curiosity and courage, its members have stepped outside their comfort zones to tackle local anti-social behaviour issues, support vulnerable people, and champion digital inclusion. 

One of the group’s early successes was improving digital access. With support from Platform, they received Wi-Fi, laptops, and essential equipment, and soon after they began running computer sessions for local people aged between 23 and 92, covering everything from email to online services. For many, including group administrator Jean Hobson, who had never used a computer before, it was life changing. 

Their ambitions didn’t stop there. When anti-social behaviour became a concern, the group approached West Lindsey District Council and were able to secure part-funding for a CCTV pilot scheme. By April 2024, they secured the system at no cost, thanks to new council technology. This initiative has significantly reduced ASB in the area, highlighting the group’s resourcefulness and commitment to safety. 

They also worked with Platform and the council to secure funds for a life-saving community defibrillator, including two years of maintenance. Raising income from other groups hiring their space has enabled them to pay for its maintenance for a further three years. 

The group’s impact on health and wellbeing has also been significant. Weekly chair exercise sessions bring people together to stay active and reduce isolation, with a roadshow version reaching groups like Gainsborough MenShed and local fibromyalgia networks. 

Their Warm Zone project, funded by Platform, provides hot drinks, soup, porridge, and hearty stews to around 30 people each week - with plans to extend its reach. Alongside this, a recent charity lunch raised £840 for Make a Wish UK, and Laybos Legacy, (a charity for local families who have lost someone to suicide) and more community events are already in the pipeline. 

Darren Dodds, Community Engagement Officer at Platform Housing Group and nominator of the award said: “The Wintern Court Group has consistently gone above and beyond to support their local community.  Despite many of the members facing health challenges, their commitment to making a difference is unwavering. I have no doubt the Group will continue to grow as a community and create even more positive change in the future.” 

Marion Duffy, Chief Operations Officer at Platform Housing Group said: “The Wintern Court Community Group exemplifies the spirit of our Communities Together Award and are an inspiration to others.  From digital inclusion to community safety and social wellbeing, their work is making a profound and lasting difference. We’re proud to recognise their tireless efforts and the inspiration they provide to others.” 

John Battersby from Sunfish Services, who sponsored the award, said: “Sunfish Services is proud to sponsor Platform’s Community Heroes Awards, celebrating those who go above and beyond to make a difference within their communities. From fundraising to caring, every aspect of support deserves to be recognised. We are excited to help shine a light on the individuals and organisations that are bringing communities together at a time when it is needed most.” 

Photo caption : The Wintern Court Community Group, winners of the Communities Together Award, with Jon Coker, Chief Information Officer, Platform Housing Group.