Bringing people together through the restoration of Jamie’s Bench

Hello, I’m Nina, and I’m a Community Development Officer here at ForHousing. 

I wanted to share a moment that really highlighted for me the importance of investing in our communities and the impact it can have on people’s wellbeing. Our community funding supports projects that help people feel more connected, build resilience, and take pride in the places they call home. 

Recently, we supported the refresh of Jamie’s bench, working alongside the Jamie Horrocks Trust, a charity that delivers community-based projects promoting mental wellbeing and providing support to people and families facing difficult life experiences. It was inspiring to see residents come together to revitalise a meaningful space that encourages reflection and conversation.  

Hearing what this work means to the community, really brought home the value of creative, community-led projects. Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith summed it up perfectly: 

“I’m incredibly proud to have worked with We Are Willow, Jamie Horrocks Trust, and partners to have delivered this project. Creative health work in the community will all no doubt improve conversations, mental wellbeing and resilience, and community pride in Irlam & Cadishead.” 

Moments like this remind me why these projects matter. It’s not just about funding, it’s about people, their wellbeing, and the positive change that happens when a community comes together.