Making a Difference to Maidstone

Who we are

Making A Difference to Maidstone (MADM) is a community-focused charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families in need across Maidstone and the surrounding areas. Our mission is to bring hope, dignity, and practical assistance to those experiencing hardship, social isolation, or crisis.

We work with people from all walks of life, offering a compassionate, non-judgmental space where everyone is treated with respect and care. Our services are designed to address both immediate needs and longer-term personal development, helping people to stabilise their lives and move forward.

Our Support and Services Include:

• Emergency food and essential supplies for individuals and families facing financial crisis.

• Drop-in support and signposting, offering a listening ear and guidance toward relevant local services.

• Help with documentation, including support obtaining ID, benefit claims, and other essential paperwork.

• Mental health and wellbeing support, including counselling referrals and emotional support.

• Employment and housing advice, assisting with CV writing, job searches, and securing stable accommodation.

• Community connection activities, such as social events, workshops, and volunteering opportunities, helping reduce loneliness and build confidence.

At MADM, we believe in walking alongside people—not just offering a handout, but offering a hand up. We’re passionate about seeing lives transformed and communities strengthened through kindness, consistency, and genuine care.

Our culture and values

Our Culture and Values

At Making A Difference to Maidstone (MADM), our culture is rooted in compassion, dignity, and hope. We believe every person has inherent value, regardless of their past or present circumstances, and we are committed to walking alongside people with empathy, patience, and respect.

Our work is guided by the following core values:

• Compassion First
  We meet people where they are, offering support without judgment. Compassion is at the heart of everything we do—from our first conversation to the long-term relationships we build.

• Dignity and Respect
  We treat every individual with honour and kindness. Our services are delivered in a way that upholds self-worth and empowers people to make their own choices.

• Integrity
  We are transparent, trustworthy, and consistent. Whether it’s with service users, volunteers, or partners, we always aim to do what is right—ethically and responsibly.

• Community-Led
  We believe real change happens when people are connected. That’s why we create safe, inclusive spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported—building strong, local relationships that foster hope and resilience.

• Empowerment
  We don’t just offer quick fixes—we support people to build confidence, learn new skills, and take practical steps toward long-term transformation.

• Faith-Inspired, Open to All
  While our roots are in Christian faith, our services are open to everyone, regardless of belief. Our faith inspires our love in action, but it never dictates who we serve or how we serve them.

Our working practices reflect these values in action. We prioritise holistic support, work collaboratively with other local services, and constantly seek feedback to improve and adapt. Whether someone needs food, a conversation, or a fresh start—we are here to make a difference.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

At Making A Difference to Maidstone (MADM), we are committed to creating an environment where everyone is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. We value the richness that a diverse workforce brings and are dedicated to ensuring that equality and inclusion are embedded in every aspect of our organisation—from the services we deliver to the way we support and develop our staff and volunteers.

Our Commitment:

• Fairness and Respect
  We treat all individuals equally and with respect, regardless of age, disability, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, or any other protected characteristic.

• Inclusive Culture
  We actively foster a culture that welcomes and celebrates differences. Our goal is to create a working and volunteering environment where everyone feels valued, included, and empowered to contribute.

• Zero Tolerance for Discrimination
  Discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation in any form will not be tolerated. We have clear procedures in place to address any concerns swiftly and fairly.

• Accessible Opportunities
  We are committed to removing barriers that prevent people from accessing opportunities within our workforce and volunteer team. This includes making reasonable adjustments to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities or specific circumstances.

• Continuous Learning and Improvement
  We provide regular training, guidance, and reflection opportunities to ensure our staff and volunteers understand and uphold principles of equality and inclusion. We also actively seek feedback to improve our practices.

• Reflecting the Community We Serve
  We aim to recruit and retain a diverse team that reflects the community of Maidstone. We believe that a varied range of backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences enhances our ability to understand and support those we work with.

Implementation and Accountability:

Responsibility for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy lies with the leadership team and is championed across all levels of the organisation. All staff and volunteers are expected to actively promote equality in their day-to-day work and interactions.

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with best practices and legal requirements.