A welcoming hub at the heart of a rural community
In the small market town of Settle, The Place in Settle has become a lifeline for many. Set up to help local residents live healthier, happier lives, the charity offers a warm, inclusive space where people of all ages can find support, connection, and practical help.
Their work addresses critical challenges like food poverty, mental health issues, disabilities, and social isolation, with special attention to elderly people, children, people from ethnic minorities, and low-income households.
Building community, connection and care
Since opening in 2021, the charity has become a trusted part of local life. It now partners with over 16 organisations and hosts regular activities and services including a Wellbeing Café, peer-led health groups, digital skills sessions, and drug and alcohol support.
It’s not just the activities that matter; it’s the sense of belonging. The Place is now home to monthly diabetic eye screening clinics (previously at risk of being moved to Bradford), helping 50–60 local residents a month access vital care without leaving town.
Impact of the Step Change Fund
A grant from the Step Change Fund in 2022 made a huge difference. It covered nine months’ rent, giving the charity the breathing space to grow.
With that stability, The Place was able to focus on what matters: building relationships, expanding its reach, and creating a safe, welcoming hub for everyone.
Since then, they’ve recruited two part-time staff and grown a volunteer team from zero to 12.
Real impact, every day
Today, The Place is a true anchor in the community, a space where people feel seen, supported and connected. From advice drop-ins with Citizens Advice to dementia support groups, the range of help available under one roof is life-changing for many.
As one visitor said, “It’s not just what they do here, it’s how they make you feel. This is our space.”
The funding from the Step Change Fund played a key role in getting the charity to where it is today. And as demand for local support grows, The Place in Settle is ready to keep meeting it, one cuppa, one chat, and one act of care at a time.
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