In a pioneering project, local people from the Boston and Nailour estates have led change for their communities. Three community organisers were hired to help local people propose ideas for how funding could be spent locally. We speak to Hanebel Asaah whose idea was chosen by residents

Can you tell us about your idea?

My idea was for pottery classes designed to bring the community together through learning a new skill that anyone can do and with everyone on the same level footing.

This, and the other four proposals that went through, will really help to liven up the estates.

Why do you think it’s important for the council to involve residents in this way

Getting residents involved in how money gets to be spent in their local area shows that the council trusts residents to know what needs improvement. It also helps strengthen communities and builds connections between residents. Before Covid-19, residents on the estates were closer and it felt like much more of a community. But after the pandemic there’s been a bit of a disengagement between neighbours.

This is because everyone was inside, a lot of tenants have moved in and out, and people don’t really know each other on the estates. I think projects like this help to draw people in and bring them together and I’m excited to see what that can bring in the future.

How has this project impacted you?

I think it has shown me that the council does listen to local people and that it can see that it’s the residents who truly make our communities. The council understands that helping residents means helping everyone little by little.

Everyone is part of a wider community, and I think that’s what’s most valuable about the council. Becoming a community organiser helped me relate to diverse communities living on the estates and improved my understanding of what the council does and how it can help our community grow.

What difference do you hope your project will make?

I am excited to get the classes started and hope they’ll help bring the community together. Having something like this is a great way for people to connect and learn a new skill. I hope it will provide some respite for people and help to bring people of all ages and backgrounds together