Who we are

Kingston Eco-Op is a social care project based at Searchlight Community Centre (Find us here). We are managed by Kingston Voluntary Action (Charity Incorporated Organisation 1160403). The project opened in 2009 with the support of Ed Davey MP and the local CCG.

What we do

Every week-day our day service runs at Searchlight from 9.30 til 3.30, offering a range of activities for our community members who have additional support needs. The community we support is diverse, including members with mental health concerns, learning disabilities, learning difficulties, physical disabilities and other health concerns. Our personalised approach puts the needs, aspirations and feelings of our members at the heart of everything we do.

A community vision

In addition to our day service provision we do what we can to engage with the local community. This includes trips out, visits and work with local partners to find new ways for our members to enjoy and express themselves. Connecting to the community reduces isolation and helps our members feel valued. 

A place to learn and help others

Kingston Eco-Op is open to volunteers and placement students who want to take part in a project that has a community focus to help local people who are at risk of social exclusion. Students interested in social care, psychology or nursing find our project a great place to develop understanding and inter-personal skills.

Responding to need

In August 2023, we launched our first new project - The Larch - which is funded by the RBK resilience fund. This is in response to a lack of specialist services in the local area for adults with autism. A working group was established which then engaged with local people, professionals and organisations to prepare the funding bid.