believe housing supports young people and cleaner streets to enhance community

believe housing is supporting a County Durham community and helping to tackle local issues by funding a new youth project and improving neighbourhood environments. 

In response to concerns about antisocial behaviour and fly-tipping in Seaham, particularly in the Deneside and Eastlea areas, the not-for-profit housing association has awarded a £30,000 community grant to launch a new youth initiative. It is also taking practical steps to improve the look and feel of streets in those neighbourhoods. 

The Youth Connect Seaham project, which will be delivered by Groundwork North East and Cumbria, will provide free, fun and educational activities for 11 to 17-year-olds.  

Through a mix of outreach and centre-based sessions, the project aims to build confidence, reduce anti-social behaviour, and give young people a greater voice in shaping their community. 

Alongside this, believe housing has been working with partners and residents to improve the local environment: 

  • Unsightly driveways have been cleared and treated for weeds by Durham County Council, working on behalf of believe housing 
  • Barriers have been installed in fly-tipping hotspots to prevent further incidents 
  • Colleagues are planning a community litter pick, alongside Durham County Council Neighbourhood Wardens. Residents with bulky waste items are asked to take them to their local Household Waste Recycling Centre (tip) or to request collection and disposal by the council by visiting www.durham.gov.uk/bulkywaste. 

These actions are part of a wider commitment to restore pride, improve safety, and strengthen community cohesion, particularly in areas where customers have told believe housing they want to see change. 

To help shape future activity, customers are being invited to consultation events where they can share the issues that matter most to them. 

Simon Bartlett, Interim Director of Neighbourhoods at believe housing, said: “We’re listening to our customers and acting on what we see in our communities.  

“By investing in young people, empowering community activity, and improving the local environment, we’re helping to create places where people feel safe, supported and proud to live.  

“We also continue to take appropriate action on issues that relate to our homes and customers, working closely with the police, residents and other partners to support those affected and help resolve problems wherever we can.” 

The Youth Connect Seaham project will see youth workers engaging young people in their own spaces, building trust and co-designing activities that support personal development, wellbeing, and community involvement.  

The project includes access to sports, creative workshops, social action projects, and off-site activities, all designed to reduce anti-social behaviour and promote positive engagement. 

With a strong focus on inclusion, leadership, and mental health support, the programme will benefit at least 40 young people, including believe housing customers, and aims to leave a legacy by building pathways for continued participation and personal development. 

  • Crime and incidents not related to housing should be reported to the police.
    Call 101 for non-emergencies or use textphone 18001 101 if you have a hearing or speech impairment.
    In an emergency, always call 999.