How CAN are using leaflets to support the community

A charity based in Bournemouth are doing their part to help peoples wellbeing throughout Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. 

CAN, otherwise known as the Community Action Network, is an umbrella infrastructure charity plotting up at libraries and other public spaces throughout the county to offer support in different areas.  

These infomation stations can be found in Bournemouth, Christchurch, Rossmore and Castlepoint Library.  

Sitting behind a desk of 30 leaflets, the group signpost valuable support in benefits and budgeting, food support, domestic support and many more categories showcasing local resources and community groups. 

Poonam Paranjpe and Martin Robinson are part of the team at CAN serving as community connectors, standing as the first port of call for people searching for support. Their role is to spread awareness about the group and showcase the multitude of outlets available to the public.  

Paranjpe said: “This kind of service is acting so selfless, you are literally just giving, giving, giving and not expecting anything back.” 

“I’ve always been a community person, and joining this CAN organisation has totally made me more confident. I really want to help people.” 

The information stations are available year round, found all throughout the county in places like Bournemouth, Christchurch and Castlepoint library.  

Robinson called the stations, “a great point of contact” for people seeking help and information.  

“So many people don’t know about all the great help that’s out there […] and little things can make a big difference”. 

“Just these small interactions can lead to something”, he said.  

Groups like CAN are vital to the community, demonstrating that help is readily available for those in need.