Impact Report 2023/24

Overview

2023/24 marks the first year of Double Up CIC and the launch of our Breaking Barriers project, supported by funding from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Our aim from the outset has been to create accessible, community-led spaces where individuals — particularly young adults — can improve their mental wellbeing, build connections, and take part in positive, shared experiences.

This year has been focused on laying strong foundations, testing our approach, and building trust within the communities we serve.

Key Impact in Numbers

  • 100+ individuals engaged across sessions and activities

  • 12+ structured sessions delivered

  • 3 core activity types: fitness, workshops, and community meetups

  • Weekly engagement through both in-person sessions and online groups

  • Initial community group established with ongoing participation

Figures are based on project delivery and engagement tracking.

Our Project: Breaking Barriers

The Breaking Barriers project was developed to address challenges around mental health, isolation, and lack of accessible support — particularly among young adults.

Our approach combines:

  • Park fitness sessions

  • Art and wellbeing workshops

  • Community food meetups and social gatherings

These activities were designed to be informal, welcoming, and easy to engage with, removing the pressure often associated with traditional support services.

Who We Reached

Our work has focused on supporting:

  • Young adults aged 18–35

  • Individuals experiencing mental health or wellbeing challenges

  • People facing social isolation or lack of community support

  • Those who may not engage with traditional services

The project has been delivered across Greater London, including North London and surrounding areas.

Outcomes & Impact

While still in its early stages, the project has already demonstrated clear positive outcomes.

Participants have reported:

  • Feeling more connected to others

  • Increased confidence in social environments

  • Reduced feelings of isolation

  • Improved overall wellbeing through regular activity

A key impact has been the creation of a space where individuals feel safe, understood, and able to engage at their own pace.

Community-Led Approach

A central part of our work has been involving the community in shaping the project.

  • Regular conversations and feedback have guided activity design

  • A core group of participants has helped shape delivery

  • Ongoing engagement through WhatsApp and social platforms

  • Strong word-of-mouth growth within the community

This has ensured that our work reflects real needs rather than assumptions.

What Worked

Several elements have been key to our early success:

  • Creating relaxed, non-judgemental environments

  • Keeping sessions accessible and low-pressure

  • Combining physical activity with social connection

  • Maintaining consistent communication with participants

These factors have helped build trust and encourage repeat engagement.

Challenges

As a first-year organisation, we have faced expected challenges:

  • Building awareness from a standing start

  • Operating within limited funding

  • Balancing demand with capacity

  • Establishing consistent delivery across locations

These challenges have provided valuable learning that will shape future growth.

Financial Overview

Double Up CIC’s work in 2023/24 has been supported through a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Funding Source:

  • The National Lottery Community Fund

Key Areas of Spend:

  • Venue hire across multiple locations

  • Workshop facilitation (art and wellbeing sessions)

  • Sessional staff and project delivery

  • Project coordination and administration

  • Equipment and materials

The project was delivered with a focus on maximising impact while maintaining cost efficiency.

Looking Ahead

Building on our first year, our focus for the future is to:

  • Expand the number of sessions and activities

  • Reach a wider group of participants

  • Strengthen partnerships with local organisations

  • Continue developing a strong, supportive community network

We aim to build on what has worked, while continuing to adapt based on community needs.

Final Reflection

2023/24 has been about starting something meaningful.

From an initial idea to a growing community, Double Up CIC has begun to create spaces where people feel comfortable, supported, and connected.

While still early in our journey, the response so far shows the importance of simple, community-led approaches to wellbeing.

We look forward to continuing this work and building on these foundations in the years ahead.