Community Partnerships

The Stones Community Trust (Reg Charity No1184274)

In November 2025, Circle of Friends CIC was honoured to receive the Judges’ Award at the Gulland’s Maidstone High Street Heroes Awards. It was at this event that Wendy Pfeiffer and Diane Bromley met Julie Palmer, Operations Director of The Stones Community Trust, also known as Stones in the Community. What began as a conversation on the night quickly grew into something far more meaningful and opened the door to conversations that changed that path. Julie took time to learn about Circle of Friends CIC and the challenges being faced with lack of funding. She felt strongly that this was a service too important to lose.

Following further conversations and a meeting between both organisations, an official partnership was agreed. Stones in the Community committed some financial support and partnered with Circle of Friends CIC to continue its work supporting older people in Maidstone.

Both organisations are clear, however, that further funding is still needed to secure the long-term future of the service.  This partnership reflects a shared belief that community-led support matters and that older people should not be left isolated. At a time when connection is more important than ever, both organisations are committed to protecting and strengthening services that bring people
together.

About The Stones Community Trust
Stones in the Community is an independent registered charity working across Maidstone and the surrounding areas. Using the power of football, sport, and physical activity, the charity connects, motivates, and inspires people of all ages. 

Through programmes focused on community, education, health and wellbeing, and sport, Stones in the Community works in partnership with local organisations to improve physical and mental health, boost confidence and skills, and create positive opportunities for people
at every stage of life.