Who We Are


East Durham Partnership is a not-for-profit organisation based in Horden, County Durham. Initally established in 1989 as a local community project run by volunteers in an attempt to offer a range of training and support activities for disadvantaged residents of East Durham affected by the closure of the coal mines. This small project has grown over the twenty-nine years we have been in existence from a small volunteer organisation to the establishment of a registered charity and company limited by guarantee employing 15 local people.

Charitable Aims


The objectives of the Charity are to promote any charitable purpose for the benefit of the East Durham community and in particular for the advancement of education and the furtherance of health and the relief of poverty, illness, distress and sickness. We provide a range of services including low cost furniture and household goods, dementia cafe, work placements, up-cycling, training. Many of these are delivered through our Social Enterprise.  Any income generated is re-invested into the community services provision which we offer and into the sustainability of the charity.

Dementia and Cree Projects


At EDP we offer a range of projects for individuals or groups experiencing dementia type or emotional health issues. The CREE project is funded by Durham County Council and offers work experience opportunities based at EDP Charity for anyone experiencing isolation, loneliness or apprehension to seek work after long term illness. The Haven cafe offers a range of activities offering opportunities to meet people and chat in a safe and friendly environment.

Meet the team


Mrs Kay Hawkridge-Smith
Peterlee (Chair and Community/grants Representative)
ex CVS Manager
Mr. John T.Mcloughlin
Chester-le-Street (treasurer)
Lloyds Bank Accounts Manager
Mr.Mark McNichol
South Shields (Deputy Chair) \
Senior Teacher
Mrs Beverley Hart
Hartlepool (Secretary)
Business Development Manager
100 tonnes
of environmental waste diverted
400 people
assisted in finding employment
300 cups
of tea and coffee served in our Café