County Durham tenants invited to help shape community projects

Believe housing invites residents in Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow and Billy Row to join Our Place, Our Voice and shape community decisions in County Durham.

Believe housing invites residents in Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow and Billy Row to join Our Place, Our Voice and shape community decisions in County Durham <i>(Image: believe housing)</i>

(Image: believe housing)

A housing association is inviting tenants in four County Durham towns and villages to help shape the future of their communities through a new engagement group.

Customers of believe housing in Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow and Billy Row are being urged to join Our Place, Our Voice, a resident-led group backed by believe housing and Durham Community Action.

The group will give residents a say on local priorities and decisions.

Kimberley Smith, community investment coordinator at believe housing, said: "We have around 1,600 homes across Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow, and Billy Row, but understand that residents know their communities best.

"Through Our Place, Our Voice, their knowledge and experience will help us better understand local priorities and guide our decisions about community investment funding, future projects, and services."

Members will receive training and support to engage with neighbours, gather feedback, and identify emerging issues in their areas.

Ms Smith said the scheme would give residents the skills and confidence to speak up for their communities.

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She said: "By taking part, they can build the skills and confidence to better represent their communities when engaging with other organisations too, helping them make a difference where they live, now and for future generations."

Applicants must live in a believe housing home in Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow or Billy Row and want to improve their community.

Those who would like to get involved or learn more can contact Kimberley Smith at 0300 1311 999 or email kimberley.smith@believehousing.co.uk.