Blog: Connecting communities
when it matters most
7 October 2026
Lauren Giddins is the Village Agent Programme Manager at Thrive Somerset.
Her work is rooted in connection, connecting people to support, communities to services, and local knowledge to system-wide decision-making.
Leading a county-wide service across Somerset, Lauren coordinates a network of around 60 village agents and five team managers, working together to help people stay safe, well, and connected, particularly in rural areas.
“Our role is about making support feel accessible and human,” she explains.
“That might mean solving practical problems, working with partners, or simply being present in communities when people need reassurance.”


