A Liverpool-based entrepreneur, Shima Abi, is transforming underused school halls, pitches and meeting rooms into vibrant community spaces, creating new income for schools and fresh opportunities for local people to connect.
Founded by Shima Ami, the Community Lettings Management Company (CLMC) is breathing life into spaces that once sat empty for hours at a time.
From football and netball to performing arts and Sunday services, CLMC is proving that no space need go to waste.
Shima spotted a simple but powerful opportunity.
Many schools and organisations across Liverpool have facilities lying idle, while community groups struggle to find affordable places to meet and play.
Unlocking Potential for Liverpool Schools
The challenge was unlocking that potential in a sector wary of commercial hire, compliance requirements and safeguarding responsibilities.
Shima said:
“Schools didn’t always see themselves as commercial operators.
“There was potential, but unlocking it would take strategy, know-how and a bit of persistence.”
Having started his new business, Shima accessed support from Liverpool City Council’s Business Support Service, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.
Through workshops, mentoring and specialist advice, Shima refined his approach, learning how to pitch effectively to different decision makers, strengthen his operations and sharpen his marketing.
He said:
“I went in with an open mind, I wanted to learn how things really work and what support was out there.
“The guidance helped me understand my audience and show schools that we’re solving a problem for them, generating income, managing compliance and creating real community impact.”
Support also helped CLMC navigate safeguarding, compliance and DBS requirements, giving schools confidence that every booking would be safe, smooth and professionally managed.
Strengthening Community Cohesion and Growth
Today, CLMC manages a growing portfolio of spaces that are once again full of life.
Schools benefit from new revenue streams and safer, supervised use of their facilities, while community groups gain access to affordable, local venues.
“Our customers range from football, volleyball and netball teams to a performing arts company and a church group using a hall for Sunday services,” Shima explains. “It’s about building community cohesion and making sure these spaces work for everyone.”
“I want to motivate our teachers, people in positions that can make the decisions for change, to offer more for the community.
“Giving people access is important for mental health, important for keeping fit and important for community cohesion. It’s a commercial avenue, and it’s really impactful,” he says.
Cllr Nick Small, Member for Growth and Economy, said:
“Liverpool City Council is proud to support innovative initiatives like CLMC that not only make better use of our community spaces, but also create real opportunities for local people.
“By working together, we can ensure our neighbourhoods thrive, bringing benefits to residents, schools, and organisations right across the city.”
