From Longton & Proud CIC was built on a simple idea: what if neighbours helped neighbours?

Although officially incorporated in March 2024, the organisation’s story began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when communities were isolated, support was limited and many people were struggling. What started as a grassroots response to help local people quickly became something much more powerful a community stepping forward for itself. That same spirit continues today.

From Longton & Proud CIC exists to create opportunities, reduce barriers and rebuild pride within the town. It is not driven by funding or formal structures but by a genuine commitment to people and place. Every initiative is designed with one clear purpose: to ensure that everyone in Longton feels included, supported and able to take part in their community.

At the heart of the organisation is The Little Longton Book Exchange, based at Longton Exchange. This free and welcoming space encourages literacy, sharing and conversation, while also creating a place where people feel comfortable and connected. Used daily by individuals and families, it has become a simple but powerful symbol of accessibility and inclusion within the town.

From Longton & Proud CIC is entirely volunteer led. Operating without formal funding, everything it delivers is made possible through the time, energy and care of local people. This creates a strong sense of ownership and ensures the organisation remains closely aligned to the needs of the community it serves.

The CIC focuses on practical, meaningful support that removes barriers and responds directly to local need. Through The Little Longton Uniform Exchange, families can access free school uniform, reducing financial pressure while ensuring children feel prepared and included. Winter Warmers provides free clothing and support during colder months, offering both practical help and reassurance.

Weekly coffee mornings provide a consistent and welcoming space for people to come together, reducing isolation and building relationships. Operating on an honesty box basis, individuals contribute what they can, when they can, removing financial pressure while maintaining dignity and inclusion.

The organisation supports additional opportunities for engagement including community jigsaws, accessible recreational activities such as ping pong tables and food hygiene training for volunteers. These initiatives, while simple, play a significant role in building confidence, encouraging participation and strengthening community connection.

The introduction of a community lounge has further enhanced this offer, providing a safe and inclusive space where people can spend time, connect and access support. While part of a wider city initiative, its presence within Longton Exchange strengthens the CIC’s ability to support people locally and consistently.

From Longton & Proud CIC plays an active role in wider community activity. Through its relationship with Longton Exchange it supports free, inclusive events that bring people together and create positive shared experiences, helping to ensure these opportunities remain accessible to all.

Partnership working has been key to sustaining and growing its impact. Support from initiatives such as the Longton Artisan and Cultural Fair, which donates profits from its monthly markets, allows the CIC to continue reinvesting into the community despite operating without formal funding.

From Longton & Proud CIC has expanded its impact through the opening of a second unit within Longton Exchange, offering a range of preloved and new items. This space is entirely volunteer-led and has been developed to support the long-term sustainability of the organisation by generating income that is reinvested directly into its community initiatives. By creating a self-sustaining model, the CIC has strengthened its ability to continue delivering support without reliance on formal funding, while also increasing its presence and accessibility within the centre.

From Longton & Proud CIC engages with more than 500 people each week. This impact is not driven by large-scale campaigns but through consistency, visibility and trust. People know where it is, what it offers and that they are welcome.

From Longton & Proud CIC has entered the Business in the Community category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.