Why telling our story matters
And what it means to be included in the National Lottery’s new impact strategy.
At The Together Project, we believe that joyful intergenerational experiences can change lives. Whether it's babies and toddlers singing and playing with care home residents at a Songs & Smiles session or the shared pride between a child and their older friend in Crafting Connections, those moments are packed with meaning.
But how do you prove something so warm and human?
That question is at the heart of the National Lottery Community Fund’s brand-new Evidence and Impact Strategy 2025–2030 – and we’re delighted that The Together Project has been featured as a case study in their report.
Click the image to view the full report
Our founder, Louise Goulden, shares honestly in the report about how daunting impact reporting can be for small charities. At first, the frameworks felt intimidating. But rather than trying to squeeze ourselves into a template that didn’t feel quite ‘us,’ we took a different approach. We leaned into our strengths: storytelling, listening, and meaningful connection.
With the support of the National Lottery, we built systems that work for our community. Informal conversations, scribbled sticky notes, and heartfelt quotes became powerful tools. We developed reporting templates, built a quote bank, and restructured our website to better “sing” about the difference we make.
Now, we can report with confidence and authenticity. And more than that, we've seen how stronger communications lead to more opportunities. More interest from partners. More donations. More press coverage. More chances to bring people together.
Click the image to view our 2024 Songs & Smiles impact report
Our stories are worth telling
Being part of the National Lottery's strategy shows that small, joyful ideas (when supported with belief and boldness) can grow into impactful national movements. It’s a reminder that our stories are worth telling.
You can read the full strategy here and see how charities like ours are shaping the future of funding and learning.
We’re proud to be part of this collective movement, one that puts people first, honours lived experience, and proves the power of community.