Scones, smiles and social connection: community baking with A2Dominion residents

At Sureserve Compliance Fire, we are committed to delivering meaningful social value alongside our core services. By working closely with housing associations, local authorities and communities, we create positive experiences that enhance wellbeing, foster inclusion and strengthen community connections. At A2Dominion’s Audrey Needham House, that has meant regular baking sessions with residents. What began as one batch of scones for afternoon tea has become a much-loved community activity.

What We Did

Following discussions with the Scheme Manager for A2Dominion at Audery Needham House, an opportunity was identified to support residents through simple but meaningful activity: baking fresh scones for their afternoon tea. 

Our Social Value Lead, Poppy, has a passion for baking so was more than happy to lead the session, what started off as a one-off activity, quickly evolved into a regular event. Due to the overwhelmingly positive response from residents, Sureserve Compliance Fire has now visited Audery Needham House four times this year.

Each session has featured a different bake, including scones, cookies, coconut cakes  and rock cakes. To encourage resident involvement and ensure everyone feels included, the residents choose what they would like to bake at the next session.

The Impact

These baking sessions have provided much more than homemade treats. They have created valuable opportunities for residents to come together, socialise, and enjoy quality time with their neighbors. 
For many older people, opportunities to connect with others can become less frequent over time. Activities such as these provide a relaxed environment where residents can meet, talk, laugh, and build friendships, helping to combat social isolation and promote wellbeing.

The popularity of the sessions has continued to grow, with attendance increasing at each visit. Residents have even nicknamed the events “Baking with Poppy”, reflecting the strong relationships that have been built through the project.

The sessions have become something residents genuinely look forward to, with many already discussing ideas and plans for a Christmas baking event.

Client Feedback 
“Thank you, Poppy and Sureserve Compliance Fire, for delivering a fantastic session with our elderly residents and social value that brings people together”
Emma McConnell, A2 Dominion Social Purpose

What began as a simple afternoon of baking has developed into a much-loved community activity that continues to bring residents together. Through regular engagement, increased participation, and meaningful social interaction, the project demonstrates how small acts of social value can have lasting impact on wellbeing, inclusion and community spirit.