26/02/2025
Recent workshop reinforced a shared commitment to real change for Thetford
The workshop brought togetherlocal Thetford business representatives, charities, police, education providers and housing provider Flagship.
A shared commitment to working together to benefit Thetford people was underlined at a recent workshop.
Flagship Group recently brought together key partners at a workshop to share ideas, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities to support the community. The event, held at Thetford Garden Centre, provided a platform for local businesses, charities, police, and education providers to collaborate on practical ways to make a difference.
As a social housing provider with 5,400 homes in Thetford, Flagship is committed to investing in the town and supporting the people who live there. The organisation is keen to work alongside partners to ensure its efforts complement wider initiatives that aim to strengthen the local community. Discussions highlighted the need for accessible spaces where people can come together, socialise, and take part in activities.
Thetford resident Barbara Canham speaks at the event.
Attendees spoke about the value of a dedicated community hub, events that celebrate Thetford’s identity, and projects that encourage local pride, such as clean-ups and volunteering initiatives. The importance of youth provision was also a key theme, with calls for safe spaces where young people can meet and more structured activities to support their development.
Callum James, Flagship’s placemaking and regeneration manager, said: "We get it—people want to see real change, not just hear promises. And regeneration is about so much more than buildings; it’s about people, opportunities, and creating places where communities can truly thrive.
"Buildings are only one piece of the puzzle. Lasting change happens when we come together with local organisations and residents who know their community best. We’ve spoken about reopening a disused football pitch. That would be a great opportunity and there looks to be support from different partners to make it happen."
Discussions centred around the future of the town of Thetford.
Representatives from Norfolk Police, the Keystone Development Trust, Citizens Advice, and the Eastern Education Group were among those who took part in the discussions.
Mr James said: “Our discussions also focused on themes such as better lighting, cleaner public spaces, and new community areas—small changes that we are committed to supporting.”
Michelle Gant, director of Engaging People Company, who facilitated the discussion, said: “It was clear from the conversations that there is a shared passion and commitment for Thetford. There’s a lot of great work happening which was highlighted at the event, as well as opportunities to collaborate for the community.”
Mr James added: “We’re committed to working with partners and the community to make a real difference in Thetford. This isn’t just about improving places—it’s about investing in people, opportunities, and the future of the town.”
This event marked the start of a wider conversation, with partners eager to continue working together to turn ideas into action.