Communities fortnight kicks off with litter picks, art and gardening

We have launched our latest Communities Connected fortnight with a packed programme of events bringing residents, colleagues and partners together to support cleaner, safer and more vibrant neighbourhoods.  

We organised the activities across Leicestershire, including litter picks, creative workshops and the transformation of a community garden, all delivered with the help of volunteers from across our teams and in partnership with local organisations.  

“It’s been a brilliant start to Communities Connected,” said Tracy Ault, our Community Engagement Officer.  “Our colleagues and customers have shown such enthusiasm and the events have been a great way to bring people together to make a positive difference.”  

The week began with a litter pick and recycling event at St Mary’s Court, held in partnership with Harborough District Council; following its success, plans are already underway to replicate the initiative at Shropshire Close, where residents will receive information and recycling bags to help reduce ongoing waste issues.  

Meanwhile, at Hazeland Court, volunteers rolled up their sleeves to begin work on a new community garden, giving residents the chance to grow their own vegetables in newly prepared raised beds.  

Tracy said: “It was a hard slog clearing the site, but the transformation is already taking place and we can’t wait to see it thriving.”  

We also teamed up with Leicestershire Police, Harborough District Council and the Community Safety Team to host a pop up Community Safety Day in the heart of Broughton Astley.  In just two hours, the team engaged with more than 40 members of the community, offering a chance to raise concerns, get advice and strengthen local partnerships.  

At retirement living scheme Arkwright House, students from Thomas Estley School joined residents for a button art workshop, a colourful, hands on activity made extra special thanks to Annie, a resident who created the art templates and shared her skills with the group.  

Tracy concluded: “Seeing different generations creating something together was really uplifting.  It’s moments like these that show what Communities Connected is all about.”  

The Communities Connected initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to community cohesion, wellbeing and engagement.  Further events are planned throughout the year, continuing to foster pride of place and meaningful partnerships with residents and local organisations.   

Photo caption : Raised beds have been put in place at Hazeland Court.