We have a dedicated community helpdesk, located on the ground floor of Portsmouth Central Library which is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4pm. Our advisors are able to offer guidance about financial support for utility bills, information about where to access free food provision, and help with signposting people with specific enquiries who don’t know where to turn. Please pop in and see how we can support you. The helpline is available 9.30am to 4pm on 023 9400 7124 from Monday to Friday. Or you can email us via info@hiveportsmouth.org.uk
Anyone can get school uniforms free from our Uniform Share Store for schools across Portsmouth. We have hundreds of good quality second hand uniform items, including PE kit, items with school logos, coats, summer dresses, jumpers, shorts and shoes, which have all been sorted and stored in line with public health guidance. Details of how to request uniform items can be found here.
We've opened two voluntary sector hubs in Portsmouth, based in the city centre and in Paulsgrove. We understand that community is just as important as productivity. Our two HIVE Portsmouth Hubs offer co-working, hot-desking, desk rental and charity incubation services. They’re spaces which give local Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector groups and organisations the opportunity to share facilities, reduce costs and collaborate on projects. These hubs have been made possible by a generous donation from BAE Systems.
The HIVE Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Team supports, connects and equips the sector in Portsmouth. We can provide an overview of the VCSE sector in the city, identify gaps in the service and work with groups and organisations to fill this gap, acting as a conduit in developing relationships and partnerships by bringing organisations and groups together.
The Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) Portsmouth is a five-year partnership funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). It brings together Portsmouth City Council, the University of Portsmouth and HIVE Portsmouth to build local research capacity and work towards reducing health inequalities across our city.
At its heart, HDRC Portsmouth is about understanding what helps people in Portsmouth live well, and making sure that understanding shapes the decisions, services, and support that affect people's everyday lives.
You have been fantastic. Whenever I’ve phoned a cheerful voice answered, listened carefully and solved my problem or directed me to someone else who was able to help. Your knowledge of who, where and what in Portsmouth is invaluable
Helpdesk customer
There are countless reasons why people volunteer. It's an opportunity to get involved with your local community, to keep your mind active, and to increase your confidence. With a multitude of opportunities, it's a chance to learn new skills, impress employers and improve your health. Most of all it's a chance to make a real difference.
You can support our work with local people, groups and organisations through PayPal. These donations help make Portsmouth a happier, healthier and more connected city and this ongoing support helps us work with our partners to best meet the needs of our community. This would not be possible without the generosity of our supporters.
Do you have a great idea to help others, make your community a better place or improve the environment? If you are a new or existing Social Enterprise, Voluntary or Community Group looking for advice or support from starting up to ensuring sustainability, new opportunities and networking. We can help and support you to turn your idea into a reality.
Portsmouth Community Lottery raises money for local good causes. Buy a ticket and you’re not only giving yourself a chance of winning up to £25,000, you’re also supporting your chosen organisation. Tickets are only £1 per week, with 60% going to local good causes. If you're a local group, you can apply for Portsmouth Community Lottery funding of up to £1,000 using our simple form.