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In 2001, a newly formed Tenants & Residents Association on the Hilltop estate in Ebbw Vale decided to tackle the problems affecting their community and run-down green spaces around them. They approached BTCV Cymru for help and the local BTCV Community Project Officer offered the support and guidance needed to help the group get started to make their estate and surroundings greener, cleaner and safer. The first step was a 'Snapshot' photographic project. This helped people record the areas around the estate that were crying out for change and also documented what local people wanted to change in their neighbourhood. Out of this exercise, the group developed an action plan which gave a framework to decide how best to improve the area. This also enhanced community pride and created a sense of ownership. The group were keen to take on a large 10-hectare site but began by gaining valuable experience on a smaller scale project, creating a new garden for the estate. The first step was to receive permission to use the site from the local council and the BTCV Community Project Officer offered advice and support to help the group deal with the technical and legal issues. This equipped the group with the skills to begin work. Once work began, support and guidance was given on fundraising, sourcing match funding and effectively involving and motivating the community to take an interest in their estate. A group evaluation was undertaken which helped everyone involved understand more about their achievements, as well as providing the knowledge needed to expand and get more people involved in the project. Despite the illness of some group members, the project has become self-sustaining. The project has also provided a framework for local people to work within, giving them confidence to continue to maintain their newly created green spaces by themselves. As the BTCV Community Project Officer explained: 'The group has overcome some dreadful traumas associated with health problems. The fact that they are still going and working on the project is a tribute to their group spirit and tenacity. This is true community spirit and it is alive and well in Hilltop.' All content copyright © 1986-2009 BTCV Ltd. Registered charity No. 261009 |
