The Harold Hill East community marked a significant milestone with its Pride in Place Awareness Day. The event brought together residents, voluntary organisations, and local representatives to foster a deeper understanding of community needs and future development opportunities.
This initiative is crucial for the ten-year Neighbourhood Investment Programme, empowering the resident-led Pride in Place Board. The Board's role is to guide the future of Harold Hill East by making informed decisions based on local insights, existing services, and potential improvements.
The Awareness Day, part of the programme's listening and learning phase, equipped Board Members with essential knowledge. To date, approximately 600 residents have engaged with the programme, identifying key local issues and opportunities.
Board Members heard directly from various organisations and services operating in Harold Hill and Havering. Presentations covered community safety initiatives, including efforts to tackle youth crime, shoplifting, and drug-related activities, alongside community-led approaches to building confidence and neighbourhood safety.
Discussions also focused on parks and open spaces, exploring current and proposed investments to enhance green areas and encourage greater public use. Future investment strategies aim to support environmental improvements and create welcoming spaces for all ages.
Partners shared insights on critical local issues such as youth support, health and wellbeing, community facilities, transport, and regeneration. These sessions allowed Board Members to review evidence and understand inter-service collaboration for improved resident outcomes.
“"Today's Awareness Day has given Board Members a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the organisations and services working across Harold Hill and to deepen our understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing the area."
Paul Rose, Chair of the Board, highlighted the importance of listening to the community and making informed decisions for the programme's future direction. He emphasised that investment recommendations will be guided by local needs and priorities.
“"Pride in Place is all about giving local people a genuine voice in shaping the future of their neighbourhood, and today's Awareness Day has been an important step in that journey."
Cllr Keith Prince, a Board Member, stressed that the programme empowers local people to shape their neighbourhood's future. He noted the collaborative effort between residents, community organisations, and local services ensures investment decisions are well-informed.
“"People in Harold Hill know where investment could make the biggest difference, whether that is safer streets, more opportunities for young people or better places to meet and spend time together."
Julia Lopez, MP and Board Member, stated that local residents best understand where investment is most needed, citing safer streets, youth opportunities, and improved community spaces. She urged continued outreach to ensure all voices are heard and that funding is used effectively to deliver visible improvements.
The Pride in Place programme, supported by the Government, aims to enable communities like Harold Hill East to lead in identifying priorities and shaping long-term local investment.
