The group were accompanied by ICON Commissioners Professor David Halpern and Matt Leach, who were delighted by the opportunity to meet with local residents and volunteers.
Attendees discussed the vital role of community-led social infrastructure and the value of the Big Venture Community Centre. Created by local people in 2016, the centre offers a welcoming space for families and individuals to attend classes, performances, and workshops, and take part in community gatherings.
Commissioners gained valuable insights into the challenges and ambitions of residents and volunteers, who emphasised the importance of building trust and consistently engaging with local people.
As part of ongoing research, the Commission will continue to visit neighbourhoods around the country, to better understand the challenges faced by residents and learn from their ideas for change.
The Commission will examine the case for a new focus on neighbourhoods in national policy as a means of addressing wider policy challenges.