Charlie Tallis
Community Gathering
Building small actions to collective movement
We’re inviting individuals, changemakers, community and grassroots groups, local and regional organisations to come together for a free, in-person Community Gathering event.
Where: Sparks – Department of Imagination (first floor)
78 Broadmead, Bristol, BS1 3DS
When: Saturday, July 11th, 10:00am-3:00pm
Cost: Free to attend
(c) George Cook
About the Community Gathering
This event is about connection, collaboration and shared learning. We’ll explore how action at every level, from individual actions and community-led projects, to city-wide and regional strategies, can support nature’s recovery and help build a stronger, more connected wider movement.
Whether you’re just getting started or already involved in nature or climate action, this gathering is designed to spark new connections, share ideas, and build confidence to take the next step. You’ll hear from a range of voices, discover what’s happening across Bristol and the wider region, and have space to ask questions, share challenges and successes, and explore opportunities to work together.
The focus is on conversation, participation and networking, creating a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone’s experiences and perspectives matter.
Wildlife Champions group shot (C) Charlie Tallis
Your ideas matter
Share your ideas to be part of the conversation and help shape what comes next.
Submitting your ideas will enter you into a prize draw to win a wildflower voucher to help bring more nature to where you live.
*Prize draw terms and conditions:
- To enter, submit your ideas to help shape this community event
- The winner will receive a £25 voucher to use in our wildflower nursery at Grow Wilder
- The winner will be selected at random and contacted by email
- You must be aged 16+ to enter
- Non-transferable, non-refundable, and no cash alternative available
- The draw closes on 17th April 2026
What to expect at the Community Gathering
Interactive discussions and open conversations
Community-led project showcasing and stories
Plenty of time to connect and network
A welcoming, inclusive and accessible environment
The focus is on participation, sharing goals, experiences, and learning from one another.
Who should attend the Community Gathering?
- Inspirational individuals, of all ages, interested in taking action for nature
- Youth and volunteers championing nature
- Community-led groups from all backgrounds
- Local and regional organisations
- Councillors and partners working on nature recovery
Whether you’re joining as an individual or representing a community group or organisation, this Community Gathering is an opportunity to connect, learn, and make your work for nature more effective.
Everyone is welcome!
By coming together in one room, we can:
- Break down silos and strengthen relationships
- Share challenges honestly and learn from each other
- Build collective momentum for nature’s recovery in our region
Individuals
You’ll have the chance to:
- Meet others who care about nature and are taking action locally
- Learn from real community projects and shared experiences
- Build confidence to take your next step — whatever that looks like for you
- Feel part of a wider movement working towards nature’s recovery
You don’t need to be an expert — curiosity, interest, and lived experience are just as valuable.
Youth groups
You’ll have the chance to:
- Build connections and strengthen community ties
- Make your voice heard
- Develop leadership skills
- Gain Inspiration and boost confidence
- Learn about local Issues and engage in collective action
- Open doors for future opportunities
Community-led groups
You’ll have the chance to:
- Meet others facing similar challenges and share what’s worked (and what hasn’t)
- Make useful connections with local organisations, funders and decision-makers
- Ask practical questions and get clearer routes to support, advice and resources
- Raise the profile of your work and learn from other community-led projects
If you’re part of an organisation
Registering gives you the opportunity to:
- Connect directly with community groups, volunteers, and partners
- Learn what’s happening on the ground and what support is most needed
- Share your work in an informal, relationship-building setting
- Explore opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and co-design
This is a space to listen, learn, and build trust — not to present or promote.
If you care about nature, strengthening community-led work, and want to be part of positive change, this gathering is for you.Avon Wildlife Trust
Wildlife Champions (c) Holly Jones
What will you leave with?
We know giving up a Saturday is a big ask! Our aim is that you leave feeling energised, better connected, and supported to take your next step.
Our aim is that you leave the gathering with:
New connections with people and groups working on similar issues
Practical ideas you can take back to your community or project
Clearer routes to support, advice, potential funding and partnerships
Inspiration and confidence to take your next step for nature
A sense that you’re not doing this alone — you are part of a wider movement
FAQs
How do I get to the Community Gathering?
The event will take place in Sparks – Department of Imagination in the centre of Bristol. It is easily accessible by public transport. Full venue details and travel guidance will be shared with registered attendees closer to the date.
What time is the event?
The gathering will run between 10:00am and 3:00pm on Saturday, July 11th, 2026. Specific timetable with talks TBC.
Will food and drinks be provided?
Yes. Refreshments and a light lunch will be provided. We’ll ask about dietary requirements when tickets are released.
How much does it cost?
The event is free to attend thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players.
Accessibility, Filming & Data Protection
- The venue is fully accessible. If you have any specific access needs, please let us know in advance, and we’ll do our best to support you.
- Photos and short video recordings will be taken during the event for promotional and reporting purposes. If you’d prefer not to be included, please let a member of the team know on the day.
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By registering your interest, you consent to us storing your details securely and using them only to contact you about this event and related updates, in line with GDPR. Your information will not be shared with third parties without your consent.
The Community Gathering event is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund with thanks to National Lottery Players
The National Lottery Community Fund
