Jo Cooper

Back on the Map (BotM) is a resident-led charity and community enterprise. Based in Hendon, Sunderland, an area of multiple disadvantage and one of the most deprived in England, we drive local economic regeneration. Acting as a driver for positive change, creating a self-help and problem-solving culture that supports individuals to move out of poverty.

Working in the heart of the Hendon community our mission ‘Making Hendon a place of opportunity to live, work and thrive’ is achieved by creating: A Stronger Community Providing quality spaces for local people to meet, socialise, gain skills and get the support they need to move forward in life whilst building social capital locally. A Better Place Transforming empty, run down homes and letting to good tenants who become good neighbours. Our focus for capital regeneration in the high street will see quality commercial space created and empty shops brought back into use. A Local Voice Giving residents an influencing role to identify local priorities, come together to improve their area and influence service delivery. BotM is dedicated to the power of community, putting local people at the centre of organisation, providing opportunities at all levels for local people to actively contribute through volunteering.