Community clean-up day in Bridgwater
More than 100 residents came together in Bridgwater for a community clean-up day that helped improve the neighbourhood, support local people and bring neighbours together.
From recycling bikes to providing facilities for unwanted household items, the community day worked towards a shared goal of creating a cleaner, greener and more connected neighbourhood.
The event, held at Octavia Close, was organised jointly by LiveWest and Abri, giving residents the chance to clear unwanted items, access local support services and meet others in the community.
As part of the partnership, LiveWest and Abri jointly funded and delivered the event, with LiveWest covering 50% of the costs for skip hire and the attendance of the On Your Bike project through its Community Investment budget. The remaining costs were funded by Abri, highlighting how housing providers can work together to maximise investment and deliver impactful community events.
One Your Bike carried out free repairs and servicing on 19 bikes during the day. The sustainable initiative also rescued a further six bikes, which will now be refurbished before being gifted to people who need them most across local communities.
The event showcased the strength of local partnerships, with Young Somerset, the local PCSO team and the Wilstock Hub all attending to meet residents and offer information, advice and support.
Shona Stone, Community Connector for the area, said: "This event was a great example of LiveWest's commitment to partnership working and the positive impact it can have for local communities. It demonstrates the strength of housing providers working together in the same neighbourhood and how collaboration can help bring a range of organisations together to engage with residents and provide valuable support. By working in partnership, we're able to deliver events like this that make a real difference to people and the wider community."
As well as helping improve the local environment, the event highlighted the power of collaboration, with housing providers, community groups, local organisations and residents all working together to create a stronger neighbourhood.