In September 2009 Swan Foundation received a grant application from the East London Business Alliance (ELBA) for a project titled One East London.

In addition to any Foundation funding ELBA had already secured additional funding from Credit Suisse (£60,000 p.a. over two years), BT (£10,000) and London Thames Gateway Corporation (£60,000). Initially intended for one year, the aim was for a partnership lasting until at least 2018.

Swan Foundation has granted £10,000 towards the project and will enable One East London to access hard to reach communities in Forrest Gate, London.

Aiming for collaboration between companies and communities around Stratford to create a sustainable business/community partnership that will work together to tackle key social issues, social regeneration and legacy that is inclusive of local communities and local businesses is key to One East London.

One East London in partnership with East London Business Alliance (ELBA) has four touchstone aims:

• Build a sustainable business/community partnership around Stratford.

• Deliver high profile and visible business/community activities.

• With unemployed and young people included, raise skills levels and aspirations; work on employability, education and capacity building.

• Tackle key social issues including the environment.

One East London shall focus on:

• Education, raising skills and aspirations, working in schools and with youth organisations.

• Employability with community organisations and in local communities.

• Capacity building; strengthening leadership in the local community.

• Volunteering and active communities.

• Businesses and communities working together to tackle local issues.

For more information about Swan Foundation projects look through the website or contact us on 01277 844721 or email info@swanfoundation.org.uk