A new year usually comes with the pressure to make new goals. We write ambitious resolutions, then later feel guilty when we forget or drop them midway through the year.
At Pembroke House we also set our sights high. However, we make our goals according to the needs and rhythm of our neighbourhood, knowing that lasting and radical change requires consistent, coordinated action that unfolds over several years.
During our last AGM on 12th November 2024, we shared with our community the four principles we have developed to achieve our aim to create a more just and thriving Walworth. Together they form a framework that allows us to always keep this goal in sight. Across our work we seek to:
- CONNECT people together and strengthen relationships;
- GROW by collectively learning and developing new skills;
- ACT to build a better neighbourhood;
- SHARE our stories and experiences in order to bring about radical change.
As guiding and active principles, they build upon each other to become the foundation for the 5 commitments to the neighbourhood that we are spearheading over the next 10 years.
1. Community
The Walworth Living Room (WLR) has been a valued site for our community to gather and connect. After a period of fundraising and renovation, we will be reopening the space this year with expanded programmes that underscore the value of social connections in building healthy and resilient communities.
2. Food
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, we have been exploring a radical approach to our food system. Connecting with local people and partners across Walworth, we will build a just neighbourhood food system that promotes collective food security, generates and keeps money in Walworth, and capitalises on the power of food to bring people together.
3. Residency
We have an unbroken history of residency in Walworth, and are eager to build on this past to explore a new model of neighbourhood living and organising. By reconnecting with former residents and building relationships with other historic settlements, we will develop a modern 21st century vision for neighbourhood housing.
4. Art
Art and culture are powerful tools able to strengthen social relationships and enable personal, cultural and social justice in our neighbourhoods. To nurture this potential we will engage with and support the existing creative life in Walworth. We will also strengthen existing programmes such as the Pembroke Academy of Music and develop opportunities for people to engage with other creative practices locally.
5. Learning
Pembroke House is one part of a rich ecosystem in Walworth, and we care about facilitating learnings and sharing resources within the neighbourhood. We will develop a centre and platform that enables us to do so, with a sustainable operating model centered on long-term and independent revenue.
We’re excited to realise these plans with our community, and we hope you join us along the way! Let us know what you think about our principles and commitments. We are always eager to connect with people and expand our thinking. If you are interested in partnering with us or providing support in any way please get in touch with us.