Hi everyone, hope you’ve all had a great summer, and managed to stay cool in the heat!

Our Stockbridge Village Community Voice took place mid-July, where we met with ForHousing colleagues to discuss the issues affecting our community and hear updates on the services that matter most to residents.

These meetings are an opportunity for tenants to raise concerns, ask questions and help shape decisions that affect our neighbourhood. Here’s a summary of some of the key topics we discussed.

Steph Tomlinson, Chair of Community Voice and ForHousing tenant 

Community Voice members shared feedback about issues around the neighbourhood, including neighbourhood signage, litter bins and ongoing repairs.

Members welcomed the removal of scaffolding at Holycroft, although questions were raised about scaffolding that remains in other areas. We have asked for further information about how long scaffolding should remain in place once repair work has been completed.

We also discussed the need for more litter bins across Stockbridge Village and the importance of having a clean and welcoming environment for everyone who lives here. ForHousing colleagues are working with the council to provide an update for future Community Voice discussions.

Community Voice will continue to monitor these issues and work with ForHousing to find solutions.

We heard an update from the Neighbourhoods Team, including positive news that the number of Housing Officers supporting Stockbridge Village has increased from two to four.

Members discussed the introduction of household inspections, which help identify concerns early, support residents where needed and make sure homes stay safe and well maintained.

We also heard about regular neighbourhood walkabouts, where teams identify issues like fly tipping and hazards, and work with residents to improve local areas.

Anti-social behaviour was a key topic of discussion.

ForHousing colleagues shared information about the work being carried out alongside local partners, including Merseyside Police and youth services, to address concerns across the neighbourhood.

Noise complaints remain the most common issue, particularly in the high-rises.

Community Voice welcomed the continued focus on spotting the signs early, supporting tenants and acting quickly, particularly when working with young people. We were pleased to hear about the range of activities available for children and young people to help reduce anti-social behaviour before it escalates.

We were encouraged to continue reporting incidents of anti-social behaviour, so agencies understand where resources and support are needed most.

If you need to support any anti-social behaviour, please fill in the form on the website – Keeping you safe – anti-social behaviour – ForHousing

Members received updates on youth provision, Play Streets and community activities taking place across Stockbridge Village.

It was great to hear about the success of local Play Streets sessions, many of which are now being led by local residents. These activities provide safe spaces for children to play, socialise and stay active close to home and thanks to funding from ForHousing, Play Streets sessions will now receive free food regardless of if those attending get free school meals. This will help support more families during the school holidays in the future.

We also discussed plans for future youth provision and the importance of ensuring young people have access to positive activities and opportunities within the community.

Community Voice agreed that investing in young people continues to be one of the most important ways to strengthen our neighbourhood.

Take a look at the work that Play Streets do here – Play Streets – ForHousing

We had an update on the different funding opportunities available to support local groups and community projects.

These funds help residents and organisations deliver activities, improve local spaces and bring people together.

Community Voice members approved two funding applications during the meeting and welcomed the positive impact these projects will have within the community.

During the meeting, members discussed the importance of celebrating the good things happening across Stockbridge Village.

There was a shared feeling that while challenges should always be acknowledged, there are also many positive stories, community achievements and successes that deserve recognition.

As a group, we would like to see more opportunities to highlight the people, projects and community spirit that make Stockbridge Village a great place to live.

If you’d like to help shape your community, apply for funding, or just find out more, speak to your Community Development Officer.

Thanks again to everyone who came along and shared their thoughts — your voice really does make a difference.