Increase the Peace is a Community Interest Company creating community festivals in Bournemouth. Our aim is to bring people together to celebrate diversity through music, art & theatre while raising money for local people.
This community‑led festival now in its 7th successful year, inspired by founder, Claire through her work teaching ESOL to separated children seeking asylum and adult refugees.
"I believe we should focus on what we have in common rather than looking for differences to separate us. I trust that music, art, creativity and shared cultural experiences can break down these barriers. Every one of us has the capacity to welcome a stranger and this festival creates the space for those moments of connection to happen.
Our team is made up of local volunteers, community workers, artists and residents who care deeply about Boscombe and want to create a safer, more connected place to live, whilst dancing together on the street! Boscombe is one of the most deprived areas in the South West and our festival offers a positive, uplifting space for everyone.
Our vision is simple: love your community, celebrate diversity, challenge perceptions and see that we have more in common than differences."
The money we raise will fund new projects with local charities, support local musicians, recruit volunteers, cover essential festival costs and create more opportunities for connection, ownership and social cohesion across Boscombe.
More information:
https://increasethepeace.info/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgBrnebsjkM