East Hampshire District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Development and Engagement, Cllr Adeel Shah, recently visited Elysian, Liss, to learn how we can support groups to thrive in their own communities.
Elysian is an independent special educational needs school offering a unique, nature-based approach to education.
Elysian’s open-air environment and farm-based learning model is designed to support the social, emotional and personal development of young people. The school also provides animal assisted therapy, life skills programmes, and community events.
All of these approaches and techniques are rooted in the strengths and assets of the local area which has a strong history of farming and land-based enterprises.
Cllr Shah’s visit was part of EHDC’s wider commitment to neighbourhood empowerment and Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) recognising and celebrating the people, places, and organisations that are already making a difference in East Hampshire.
Cllr Shah said: “Elysian is a brilliant example of how communities can lead the way in creating compassionate, innovative spaces for learning and wellbeing.
“As a council, we’re here to listen, connect and support, not only through funding, but also by helping organisations access networks, partnerships, and opportunities to grow their impact.”
To learn more about how EHDC supports community led initiatives, visit our communities support pages
EHDC also offers a range of grants and support schemes for local charities, community groups and social enterprises.
From funding for community projects to advice on partnership working and accessing wider resources, the council is here to help organisations like Elysian continue their vital work.
These include funding from individual councillors, grants from the East Hampshire Community Chest and developers’ contributions to support community infrastructure. There’s also a grant for activity-based initiatives and guidance available to help groups access other funding sources if they don’t qualify for EHDC schemes.
To find out what grants are available to your charity or community organisation click the link below