updated: residents invited to help shape the future of Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow and Billy Row

People living in Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow and Billy Row are invited to join Our Place, Our Voice — a new resident-led group to help local people make a positive difference in their community. 

Supported by believe housing and local infrastructure organisation Durham Community Action, which works with communities across County Durham, the group is open to customers and residents who live in parts of Crook, Willington, Sunnybrow and Billy Row where believe housing has homes.
Members will have the chance to share their views, experiences and ideas to help shape future investment and projects in their community.

No previous experience is needed. 

Members of Our Place, Our Voice will receive training and ongoing support to speak and listen to residents, gather feedback and find out about local issues.  

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 help ensure residents’ voices are heard, share information about opportunities and celebrate community successes. 

“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.” 

Interested? 

An informal meet and greet session for prospective members to learn more about the project and meet the team will be held on Thursday, 22 October, from 1pm to 2.30pm at Wheatbottom Community Hub, Crook.

Please register your interest by contacting Kimberley Smith, Community Investment Coordinator at believe housing, on 0300 1311 999 or by emailing CommunityGrant@believehousing.co.uk