New chapter for SHWP

Partnership (SHWP) has quietly but powerfully shaped community life in Shipston. What began as a small, volunteer driven effort has grown into an organisation that many residents rely on, from seated exercise at the Ellen Badger Community Hub to the ever-popular Warm Hub and the sustainable Stour Toy Library for young families.

This growth has not happened by accident. It has been fuelled by dedicated volunteers, committed trustees, and a shared belief that supporting wellbeing should be at the heart of community life. Now, SHWP stands on the brink of an exciting new era.

In 2025, the Partnership took a bold step, applying for National Lottery Funding via the Community Fund to expand its work and meet the increasing needs of Shipston and its surrounding villages. That decision has paid off. With significant new funding secured, SHWP is now able to move from a volunteer-led organisation to one supported by professional staff, without losing the community spirit that defines it.

At the helm of this new chapter is Kirsty Holder, stepping into the role of Chief Executive. With a strong track record from her years leading local based charity VASA, Kirsty brings invaluable experience and a deep understanding of community-based services. Her leadership marks an important milestone as SHWP shifts into a more sustainable, forward‑looking structure.

The Partnership is also welcoming a new Community Builder, Claudine Pearson, who will work alongside Rowena Webb. Claudine brings experience working closely with local parishes to strengthen grassroots engagement, skills that will be essential as SHWP turns its attention outward. Her role will focus on taking the success achieved in Shipston and extending it into the rural communities that surround the town, ensuring that all residents, no matter how remote, have access to the support and connection they deserve.

This new funding and expanded team will allow the Partnership not only to continue its valued programmes but to innovate, reach further, and make an even deeper impact. But one thing remains unchanged: its mission to improve the health and wellbeing of everyone in the Stour area to live longer, healthier and happier lives. With renewed energy, professional leadership, and a vision rooted firmly in community needs, the Partnership says it is poised to make the next five years even more transformative than the last.