Our charity, Gloucestershire Rural Community Council, or "GRCC", was founded on 3rd May 1923, at a time when the people of rural Gloucestershire were still massively impacted by the after-effects of the first world war, social deprivation and financial hardship were severe, and health, education and social services were thin on the ground.
As we mark our 103rd anniversary this May, social deprivation and financial hardship are still serious issues in our rural communities, and rural residents who depend on heating oil and LPG are reeling from steep fuel price rises caused by another war.
However, in the 2020s as much as in the 1920s, the work we do with Gloucestershire's communities is still making a big difference to people's lives, and we're proud to share a few birthday messages that we've received from organisations that we support across the county:
"GRCC has been amazing. They have such wonderful staff and volunteers enabling groups to come together through regular Tewkesbury VCSE Network meetings. In addition the monthly Keeping in Touch Newsletter is invaluable and informative. The DAISI digital drop-in service is incredibly valuable: lots of people have taken advantage of it and the feedback is overwhelmingly good. Happy birthday GRCC!” - David Hobbs, Tewkesbury Baptist Chapel
"We first heard about GRCC through GARAS. When we needed support, Guy kindly guided us in setting up our constitution and opening a business account. We are truly grateful for all your help. Wishing GRCC a very happy 103rd birthday!" - Azeb Johnson, Habesha Community Gloucester
"It has been amazing regularly meeting so many charities and organisations and developing contacts all in one place at the Cotswold District VCSE Network meetings facilitated by GRCC. This has ensured that we are all able to maximise how we work together in partnership to support the different communities we serve." - June Little, The Cotswold Listener
"We have received exceptional support from GRCC for several years. They assisted greatly with our successful CIO application, provided training for our growing number of Trustees, and provided valuable support for our grant funding applications." - Stuart Mackay, Men in Sheds Cheltenham & Gloucester
"Happy Birthday to GRCC from CBC’s Training and Employment Service. Through our work together, and especially through DAISI, we’ve supported residents to build digital confidence, access online services, and overcome barriers that would otherwise limit independence and opportunity. Working with Daniel and the DAISI team has been a real highlight of the partnership. It’s demonstrated how community based digital support can make a practical difference, whether that’s helping people get online for the first time, stay connected, or access essential support. What’s worked so well is the shared values and the collaborative approach — combining local insight, trusted networks, and a genuine commitment to inclusion. Thank you to GRCC for being such a supportive partner. We really appreciate the work to date and look forward to continuing to make an impact together." - Gayna Griffiths, Cheltenham Borough Council Housing Services
"GRCC offered us advice about how to approach funding - especially what to avoid - and their support has continued! The networking GRCC organise is especially useful. Our whole approach to managing the hall has benefitted from sharing ideas." - Tony Smith, Soudely Village Hall
