Welcome to ISA.connect CIC
Connecting Communities. Empowering Lives.
Founded on community work that began in 2014, ISA.connect CIC was established as a Community Interest Company in 2024. Based in Chelmsford, Essex, we are dedicated to reducing isolation, strengthening communities and creating opportunities for people to connect, learn, grow and thrive.
We believe that everyone deserves to feel valued, supported and included. Through wellbeing programmes, community events, cultural and heritage projects, business support and volunteering opportunities, we create welcoming spaces where people can build meaningful relationships, develop new skills and become active members of their community.
Our work is shaped by listening to the people we serve. Every programme, project and event is designed in response to community needs, ensuring that our work creates lasting and meaningful impact.
Whether you’re looking to improve your wellbeing, meet new people, grow your business, celebrate your culture or make a difference through volunteering, ISA.connect CIC is here to support you.
Together, we achieve more.
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Families Supported
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Expert Workshops
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Community Access
Delivering measurable community impact since 2014.
1,000+ people engaged through community programmes and events
Multi-year funded delivery across Chelmsford and Essex
Trusted by local partners, facilitators, and volunteers
Grant-funded programmes with structured evaluation and reporting
- About us
Where Parents Find Steady Guidance and Real Connection
- Our Story
- Our Mission
- Our Promise
Our Story
We began with a simple aim to offer support that feels real and easy to understand. Over time, our work grew through honest conversations with people who needed calm, clear guidance. Every resource we create is shaped by lived experience and a genuine wish to help you feel more confident in your journey.
Our Mission
Our mission is to make learning and support feel simple, steady and accessible. We focus on clear teaching, practical tools and a warm space where you can grow at your own pace. Whether you choose our free lessons, paid courses or membership, our goal is to bring real value to your daily life.
Our Promise
We promise to stay honest, supportive and focused on what truly helps you. You can expect clear guidance, useful resources and a community that cares about your progress. Your trust matters to us, and we work every day to honour it with thoughtful, reliable support.
- About us
About ISA.connect
ISA.connect CIC is a community interest company dedicated to reducing isolation, improving wellbeing and creating opportunities for people to connect, learn and thrive. Through inclusive, community-led programmes, business support, cultural initiatives and community events, we empower individuals and strengthen communities across Chelmsford
Founded by Isabel Da Silva, ISA.connect CIC grew from community work that began in 2014 and became a registered Community Interest Company in 2024. What started as a volunteer-led initiative supporting women and families experiencing loneliness and isolation has grown into a trusted community organisation delivering wellbeing programmes, cultural and heritage projects, business support and community events across Chelmsford.
Our work focuses on early intervention, creating safe and inclusive community spaces, and empowering people through connection, creativity, learning and collaboration. By listening to our community and responding to local needs, we design programmes and projects that reduce isolation, improve wellbeing, celebrate diversity and create opportunities for people to thrive.
Today, ISA.connect CIC works alongside residents, volunteers, businesses, community organisations and funding partners to build stronger, more connected communities where everyone feels valued, supported and included.
Connecting Communities. Empowering Lives. Together, We Achieve More.
We prioritise accessibility, cultural inclusion, and lived-experience-led design in all programmes.
What We Do
At ISA.connect CIC, we deliver community-led programmes, projects and events that create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect, learn, grow and thrive.
Why ISA.connect?
At ISA.connect CIC, we believe that strong communities are built through meaningful relationships.
Everyone deserves to feel connected, supported and valued, regardless of their age, background or circumstances. By creating welcoming spaces where people can meet, learn, celebrate and support one another, we help build confidence, reduce isolation and strengthen communities.
Our approach is simple.
Listen to the community. Respond to local needs. Create opportunities that make a lasting difference.
Our Mission
Reducing isolation. Building stronger communities.
Our mission is to create inclusive opportunities that improve wellbeing, celebrate diversity, encourage community participation and empower people to achieve their full potential.
Our Vision
To create connected, inclusive and resilient communities where everyone feels valued, supported and empowered to thrive.
We believe stronger communities are built through meaningful relationships, shared experiences and equal opportunities for everyone to participate, contribute and succeed.
1. Prevention & Wellbeing
Creating safe, welcoming environments that support emotional wellbeing and reduce loneliness through regular, low-barrier community sessions.
2. Community Connection
Bringing diverse communities together through shared experiences, cultural celebration, and intergenerational engagement.
3. Empowerment & Opportunity
Supporting individuals to build confidence, leadership, and skills through workshops, facilitation pathways, and community participation.
Current Funded Programmes
- Thriving Together
Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund
A two-year community wellbeing programme delivering structured, regular connection spaces for adults and families across Chelmsford.
Programme outcomes include:
- Reduced social isolation
- Improved emotional wellbeing
- Increased sense of belonging
- Stronger peer support networks
Delivery includes:
- Women Connection Time
- Men’s Connection Time
- Sunday community sessions
- Creative and reflective wellbeing activities
The programme includes baseline and post-session evaluation to measure impact and inform continuous improvement.
- Chelmsford Multicultural Heritage Day
Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund
A community-led heritage initiative celebrating local cultures through storytelling, arts, and intergenerational exchange.
The project captures lived heritage through:
- Oral histories
- Cultural arts workshops
- Community storytelling
- Public heritage celebration events
Outputs include a community heritage archive and public engagement event in 2026.
Community Impact
Our programmes are designed to create lasting, measurable outcomes at both individual and community levels.
Every programme, event and project we deliver is designed to create meaningful and lasting change for individuals, families, businesses and the wider community.
Although ISA.connect CIC is a growing organisation, we are already making a positive impact across Chelmsford by creating opportunities for connection, wellbeing, learning and community engagement.
Our Impact So Far
- Through our Thriving Together programme, we have supported around 30 individuals, creating safe and welcoming spaces where people can build confidence, reduce isolation and develop meaningful friendships.
- We have built an engaged online community, with more than 600 members on our Facebook page and over 120 members in our WhatsApp community, where we share daily motivation, wellbeing check-ins, community news and opportunities to help people stay connected and supported.
- We successfully delivered our first ISA.connect Business Expo in June 2026, welcoming 18 local businesses to showcase and sell their products and services, while attracting more than 100 visitors from across the local community.
- The Business Expo created valuable opportunities for entrepreneurs to increase their visibility, generate new customer enquiries, build professional networks and strengthen relationships within the local business community.
- Our inaugural Chelmsford Multicultural & Heritage Day generated an outstanding response from the community, with the first 90 tickets selling out. Due to high demand, we released an additional 20 tickets, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm for celebrating culture, heritage and connection.
- Our Annual Gala continues to celebrate the achievements of our members, volunteers, partners and community. In 2025, we welcomed 74 guests to an evening of celebration, recognition and networking, featuring prize giveaways, entertainment and inspiring stories that reflected the positive impact of ISA.connect CIC throughout the year.
- We have created opportunities for learning, personal development and financial wellbeing through workshops, discussions and community-led activities.
- We continue to build partnerships with local organisations, businesses and funders to strengthen community cohesion and maximise our collective impact.
- We have created welcoming and inclusive spaces where people of all backgrounds feel valued, supported and have a genuine sense of belonging.
As ISA.connect CIC continues to grow, we remain committed to listening to our community, responding to local needs and creating opportunities that make a lasting difference.
Every connection we create, every business we support and every individual we empower brings us one step closer to achieving our mission of reducing isolation and building stronger communities.
Participants report:
- Increased confidence and self-worth
- Reduced isolation and improved wellbeing
- Stronger community belonging
- Opportunities for leadership and volunteering
We embed evaluation, feedback, and lived experience into programme design to ensure relevance and sustainability.
Partnership & Collaboration
ISA.connect works collaboratively with:
- Local facilitators and grassroots leaders
- Community venues and organisations
- Cultural contributors and creatives
- Local businesses and sponsors
We welcome partnerships that align with our mission to build stronger, more connected communities.
Governance & Accountability
ISA.connect CIC operates with a strong commitment to transparency, safeguarding, and responsible delivery.
We maintain:
- Structured programme evaluation
- Clear governance and director oversight
- Safeguarding and compliance frameworks
- Financial accountability aligned with funder expectations
As a Community Interest Company, all work is delivered for public benefit and reinvested into community impact.
- What We Offer
How We Support You
Real support that makes a difference in people’s lives.
Antenatal Education
Clear and easy-to-understand guidance that helps you prepare at your own pace.
- Learn about labour and birth
- Plan your birth journey
- Prepare for recovery
Restorative Meet-Ups
Relaxed gatherings that give you space to breathe, share, and let go of stress.
- Gentle exercises and relaxation
- Meet other local parents
- Share experiences safely
Workshops & Events
Sessions that cover feeding, bonding, recovery, emotional health, and more.
- Hands-on learning for baby care
- Emotional health guidance
- Interactive bonding sessions
Mentoring & Personal Support
Four-week personalised mentoring pathways with follow-on community support and wellbeing check-ins.
Business Directory & Networking
Connecting local businesses, enabling referrals, partnerships and growth opportunities.
Community Events & Workshops
Annual Gala, International Women’s Afternoon Tea, Business Expo, Multicultural Events, Sip & Paint workshops and community picnics.
Why Choose ISA.connect
Real Support, Real Results
Practical guidance rooted in lived experience.
Community That Lasts
Long-term relationships beyond programmes.
Proven Track Record
Serving Essex communities since 2014 with measurable outcomes.
Inclusive & Safe
Trauma-informed and culturally responsive spaces.
- Programmes
Thrive Together (2026–2028)
A 24-month community empowerment programme supporting women, men and families across Chelmsford and surrounding Essex.
Activities include:
- Wellbeing and reflection sessions
- Creative workshops (Sip & Paint, journaling)
- Goal-setting and budgeting workshops
- Peer support groups
- Family-friendly gatherings
- Celebration events
- Social Impact
ISA.connect creates tangible impact across:
Emotional and mental wellbeing
Confidence and leadership development
Social connection and belonging
Business growth and financial capability
Inclusion and community equity
Crisis prevention and stability
- Reach & Engagement
Our Outreach & Engagement Metrics
Community Reach
- WhatsApp Community – 126 members
- Facebook Private Group – 626 members
- Instagram – 522 followers
- TikTok – 1,300 followers
Delivery
- Monthly online and in-person sessions (5–10 attendees per session)
- International Women's Day Afternoon Tea – 14 attendees
- Regular Sip & Paint workshops
Sponsors & Partners
Morrisons
Community Space Partner
Waka Lounge
Venue Partner
The National Lottery Community Fund
Thrive Together Programme Funder (2026–2028)
- What's On
ISA.connect Events
Monthly
Women's Connection Time
Sunday Catch-Up
Women's Connection Time
Business Connect
Creative Workshops
Online reflection and prayer sessions
Annual
International Women's Day
Summer Picnic
Multicultural Heritage Day
Business Expo
Annual Gala
- Exclusive Benefits
Become a Pro Member
As a Pro Member, you get exclusive access to workshops, courses, events, and resources that help you feel confident, connected, and cared for every step of your parenting journey.
- Unlimited workshops & courses
- Priority booking for events
- 30% off courses
- Private community
- Member-only discounts
- Expert webinars
- Business perks
- Resource library
Join 500+ families
Cancel Anytime
Our Latest Courses
Choose from free and paid sessions, in-person workshops, or online courses—learn at your own pace with expert guidance and practical support.
- You Make Care Possible
Donate & Make a Difference
Your support helps local families feel seen, understood, and cared for during pregnancy and early parenthood. Every contribution, big or small, allows us to offer free meet-ups, emotional support, specialist workshops, and a safe community space for parents who need it most.
Your donation helps us provide
- Support for families facing extra challenges
- Antenatal learning for those unable to pay
- Free peer support circles
- Free wellbeing support
Ways to Give
- One-off donation
- Monthly contribution
- Sponsor a parent
- Fund a meet-up or workshop
Together, we can make early parenthood gentler, calmer, and more supported for everyone.
- Our Process
Join, learn, and Feel Confident
Explore Our Support
Browse courses, workshops, and peer circles to see what fits your stage — pregnancy or early parenthood.
Join With Ease
Sign up for a free course or membership in minutes. Attend online or in person, whatever suits your day.
Stay Supported Everytime
Connect with local parents, attend workshops, and access ongoing resources. We’re here for you through every stage.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Q1:Who can benefit?
Individuals experiencing life transitions, low confidence, isolation or seeking growth.
Q2: How can businesses join?
Small businesses can apply to join the Business Directory for referrals and networking.
Q3: Is ISA.connect a charity?
ISA.connect is a Community Interest Company (CIC) registered in 2024 and operating since 2014.
Service Area
- Community Testimonails
Trusted by 500+ Local Families
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“Isa.Connect has helped my business grow and thrive. What truly sets it apart is its commitment to empowering women, especially those impacted by domestic violence and minority groups.”
“Isa.Connect has helped my business grow and thrive. What truly sets it apart is its commitment to empowering women, especially those impacted by domestic violence and minority groups.”
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“Isa.Connect has taken me from where I was to a higher level. I now think positively, feel empowered and confident to implement my plans.”
“Isa.Connect has taken me from where I was to a higher level. I now think positively, feel empowered and confident to implement my plans.”
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“I joined in 2020 and my confidence has improved so much. It is a safe space to connect without judgement.”
“I joined in 2020 and my confidence has improved so much. It is a safe space to connect without judgement.”
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“I’ve been a member for four years and launched and scaled my business thanks to the emotional and mental support.”
“I’ve been a member for four years and launched and scaled my business thanks to the emotional and mental support.”
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“Investing in ourselves cannot be over-emphasised. Thank you for a powerful session.”
“Investing in ourselves cannot be over-emphasised. Thank you for a powerful session.”
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"The peer support circle was calm, friendly, and judgment-free. It’s where I could really speak honestly about my worries."
"The peer support circle was calm, friendly, and judgment-free. It’s where I could really speak honestly about my worries."
Get Involved
Whether you are a funder, partner, or community member, there are many ways to support and engage with ISA.connect CIC.
- Refer individuals to our programmes
- Partner on community initiatives
- Sponsor local impact
- Join a session or event
Together, we can build stronger, more connected communities.