Get involved > Communities
Community power starts with you!
Do you want to be involved in making decisions about Barking & Dagenham?
We’re all about putting decision-making power in the hands of local people.
We believe you should have a say in what happens in your community, how your borough’s resources are used or invested, and why.
The people of Barking and Dagenham are at the heart of everything we do—and you’re included.
Want to get involved?
Here's how!
GROW 2025
A one-of-a-kind investment fund for bold, determined local entrepreneurs who are ready to take their ventures to the next level.
Spaces + Places
An ambitious project bringing local people together to decide how to invest £1 million in community space for Barking and Dagenham.
Give it A Go Fund
Local businesses, charities, CICs, and individuals can apply for £2,000 to test out new ideas. Local people decide what gets funded.
Disruptive Explorers
Local organisations and community groups uniting to find new ways to disrupt harmful systems in the borough.
Why get involved?
Barking and Dagenham has a proud history of community action, like the famous Ford factory strikes in 1968 which led to the Equal Pay Act.
Join us to tap into that spirit and break down barriers with residents of all cultures, ages, ethnicities, and genders.
You know the community’s needs and dreams. We’re here to support you to develop skills to get involved and we will always compensate you for your time.
Here’s what you’ll gain by getting involved:
- A chance to rebalance power in our borough
- Opportunities to make impactful spending decisions
- Teamwork, networking, and collaboration skills
- Access to training in shared decision-making, finance, and conflict management
- Compensation at the London Living Wage, plus expenses
Exercise your power! Join us in making Barking and Dagenham a stronger, more inclusive community for all.
“My experience with BD Giving has given me new skills to make an informed decision about investing while also feeling much more involved in my local community.”
- Kemi, CSG member and B&D resident
