Spotlight on KeyRing Sheffield
Building Bridges, Growing Strengths
"Connection is the thread that binds us, weaving individuals into communities and communities into a thriving Sheffield."
Yesterday, I had the privilege of visiting KeyRing, a Sheffield-based charity with a big vision: to grow connection and empowerment for people often left out of mainstream networks. Invited by my friend Kathryn Littlewood, I met a group of inspiring individuals - team members, volunteers, and those benefiting from KeyRing’s work - who are redefining what it means to support a community.
What Makes KeyRing Special?
This team's approach revolves around peer support and creating local networks that empower individuals. Unlike traditional service models, they focus on strengths, independence, and reducing reliance on top-down funding structures. The team’s dream? To transition from a national affiliation to an independent, Sheffield-focused charity, ensuring they can better serve the city’s diverse communities.
KeyRing are looking to strengthen community connection across Sheffield, establishing hubs in Lowedges and Manor, where they create opportunities for people to connect, share skills, and build resilience.
Stories of Strength and Unity
One moment that stood out was a conversation with Richard, who beautifully described KeyRing as a “family” where “everyone has a foot in the pie.” This feeling of equality and mutual respect resonates deeply with the principles of Project Ignite.
Faith, another member, shared about the group’s “Helping Hands” initiative - an organic network that helps members declutter, decorate, and even build sheds together. It’s a tangible example of community wealth-building, where skills and support are shared without a price tag, fostering trust and belonging.
Alignment with Project Ignite
KeyRing exemplifies several core principles of Project Ignite, including:
Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD): Highlighting existing talents and strengths rather than focusing on deficits.
Kindness and Compassion: Creating an atmosphere where every individual feels valued and safe to contribute.
Long-Term Sustainability: Exploring ways to build financial independence and reduce reliance on external funding.
The group’s efforts to develop local hubs and integrate peer-led initiatives embody what it means to plant “oak trees” of connection—strong, rooted, and enduring.
Looking Ahead
As KeyRing explores new paths to sustainability, they’re seeking creative ways to partner with other Sheffield communities. Imagine a network of interconnected hubs, each bringing its own flavour to the table—whether it’s art, gardening, or social events—and sharing resources to build a stronger, more connected Sheffield.
Get Involved
Volunteer: KeyRing always welcomes people who want to lend a hand.
Collaborate: Have an idea for how your community can work with KeyRing? Reach out!
Share: Tell others about KeyRing’s work and invite them to get involved.
Let’s amplify the amazing work happening at KeyRing and beyond. Together, we’re proving that connection is the foundation for a flourishing Sheffield.
Kind regards,
Brian Mosley
Founder, Love Sheffield & Project Ignite
Author of "Uniting Hearts, Igniting Change"