We are a community interest company created to support people who may be feeling lonely, disconnected or overlooked.

Our work is simple:
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We bring people together
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We help people feel supported
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We create spaces where people can connect, learn and grow​
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Our programmes are open to anyone who feels they would benefit from community, connection or support.
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Some people join us because they are new to the UK, living with neurodiversity, facing unemployment, navigating life changes, or struggling with confidence. Others simply want to meet people and feel part of something again.
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Whatever someone’s story, they are welcome here.
Our Stories​
With a professional background in the creative industry, I bring a people-centred and adaptable
approach to my work. My career was built on creativity, communication and collaboration, with particular strengths in building relationships and bringing commercial ideas to life in ways that are clear, vibrant and easy to connect with. I am known for my natural ability to build rapport with people in a way that is open, authentic and reassuring.

ALI
I bring over 18 years of lived experience as a parent to three neurodiverse children whose needs were not met within mainstream education. As the pressures on my children and family increased, I made the difficult decision to step back from a rewarding career in the creative industry in order to support their education and manage the growing emotional, financial and logistical demands at home. I understand all too well the strain placed on families when children’s needs are not understood or accommodated. I have navigated statutory services under pressure and witnessed the trickle-down effect on growing numbers of families. This has shaped my conviction that, with more responsive and flexible provision, many individuals and families could be better supported, with lasting benefits for education, health and wellbeing.
I also know first-hand the transformative power of community-based support. Two years ago, I joined a yoga course, which I still attend. Although I was initially hesitant, it became a safe and supportive space where I could challenge myself mentally and physically, while forming friendships that have become a vital source of support. I co-founded The Surrey Collective with Roz, driven by a personal understanding of the gaps in existing provision and a passion for making a difference for people who feel isolated as they navigate complex and overwhelming systems alone.

ROZ
With two decades of experience in education, community development and project management, I bring a versatile and adaptable skill set to every project I lead. My career has focused on developing and delivering programmes, with a particular strength in engaging displaced, vulnerable and neurodiverse communities in ways that are thoughtful, inclusive and impactful.
I have a strong track record of building partnerships and championing initiatives that achieve meaningful reach, engagement and measurable outcomes. I am known for my flexible, creative and intuitive approach and I thrive in collaborative environments where ideas are translated into practical action and lasting positive change. Alongside my professional experience, I bring over 18 years of personal experience as a mother and advocate for four children with distinct SEND profiles, including ASD, ADHD, PDA and dyslexia.This has given me a deep understanding of how inaccessible and unequal systems can undermine confidence and limit opportunity, particularly for those in less visible, disadvantaged or at-risk groups. Through my work, I have experienced the difference that genuinely inclusive practice can make when people are seen, valued and supported to participate. Ali and I co-founded The Surrey Collective, guided by our shared belief in creative, compassionate approaches to inclusion. Through our Community Interest Company, we are committed to creating opportunities, strengthening resilience and empowering those whose needs and strengths have too often been overlooked. By offering responsive programme design and delivery alongside accessible spaces to practise wellbeing and life skills, we are helping to build stronger, more connected and supportive communities.
