still time to get involved: community group’s free training will be held this november

People living in Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow and Billy Row still have time to get involved in Our Place, Our Voice, with free training sessions starting on Thursday 5 November.

Supported by believe housing and Durham Community Action, the resident-led group offers local people a chance to help guide future investment and projects in their communities.

Members will speak with and listen to residents, gather feedback and explore local issues and ideas for positive change.

No previous experience is needed, as full training and support will be provided.

Three sessions in November will give residents the chance to meet each other, learn about the group and prepare for their role.

They will cover expectations, communication and boundaries, as well as understanding the community and why engagement matters. Residents will also learn about keeping people safe, handling difficult conversations and managing information.

Join the November sessions

Training will take place at Wheatbottom Community Hub, 20 Wheatbottom, Crook, County Durham, DL15 9HB, on:

  • Thursday 5 November 2026, 12noon to 2.30pm
  • Thursday 12 November 2026, 12noon to 2.30pm
  • Thursday 19 November 2026, 12noon to 2.30pm

Residents are encouraged to attend all three sessions, or as many as possible. Free lunch and refreshments will be provided, and out-of-pocket travel expenses for fuel, public transport and, where relevant, taxis will be reimbursed.

Register an interest

For more information or to register an interest, anyone interested should contact Kimberley Smith, Community Investment Coordinator at believe housing, on 0300 1311 999 or email CommunityGrant@believehousing.co.uk