Customers and local partners recently came together at Octavia Close in Wilstock for a Community Action Day. The event was designed to address local concerns of anti-social behaviour (ASB) and crime.
We worked in partnership with LiveWest to bring together Avon and Somerset Police, On Your Bike, Young Somerset and Wilstock Hub to provide support, activities and opportunities for customers to share their feedback.
The day included information and advice on the support services available for customers, as well as craft activities for children and free bike repairs. A skip was also available so customers could easily dispose of unwanted items rather than taking them to the tip.
Tackling ASB in Wilstock
We organised the Community Action Day in Wilstock as we noticed the increase in ASB reports for the area.
Earlier in the year, our Community Safety Team helped to resolve a case of ASB through positive engagement and collaboration.
An incident had happened between neighbours which resulted in the police having to step in. Instead of pursuing legal action, our team focussed on engaging with the customers to find a long-term solution. Our Community Safety Officer met with the person responsible, who worked positively with us, showing their commitment to addressing the issues.
By working together with the customers, we successfully reached a solution where no further legal action was needed. Stepping in early meant that both customers were able to move on from the issue, and the community was made safer for the long term.
Listening to customer's views, concerns and opinions
A key aim of the day was ensuring customers felt heard and supported. The feedback gathered will help to inform where we focus our future community investment, partnership work and local support initiatives.
“The Wilstock Community Action Day was a really positive example of how our regional housing model works in practice. Having a dedicated Housing Partner in the area means we're able to build relationships with customers, understand what matters to them, and work with partner agencies to help address local issues.
“The day gave us a great opportunity to speak to customers face-to-face, including people who may not normally get in touch with us directly, and make sure their views were heard. It was also encouraging to see so many people getting involved, whether that was speaking with local organisations, seeking advice and support, or helping tidy up the area by making use of the community skip. Events like this show the difference that can be made when customers, landlords and local partners work together.”
Scott Boulton
Housing Partner for South West at Abri
Partnership working creates positive outcomes for customers
Partnership working can make all the difference in tackling local challenges. It can bring together different kinds of expertise, enable early intervention and make better use of resources. This collaborative approach leads to creating safer, stronger and more connected communities.
“It was really good to combine our resources to finance the skip and bring together different parts of each of our organisations. The day benefited all our customers, both Abri and LiveWest, and created a proactive, community atmosphere.”
Shona Stone
Community Connector at LiveWest
If you're experiencing ASB issues in your local community, visit our ASB page for guidance or to file a report.
Click hereBuilding community for the future of Wilstock
The Community Action Day is just one part of wider work taking place in Wilstock, including the opening of a new Community Hub that will provide a safe space for young people to access support and connect with others.
By working together and listening to customers, we’re helping to renew a stronger sense of community and pride for Wilstock.