Shirehampton Community Action Forum - July update
(from SHIRE jULY 2002)
The key areas each of the three main action groups are working on are as follows:-
HOUSING: Organising another Ridge Residents drop-in session meeting for Tuesday 9th July at Penpole Tenants Association, The Ridge, between 4.00-6.00pm - gives residents the opportunity to meet reps from the three main Housing Associations, BCC Area Housing Office, the Police, Neighbourhood Watch etc. All Ridge residents welcome.
COMMUNITY SAFETY: Currently applying for grants to fund a very comprehensive Community Safety Audit of Shirehampton, to be carried out in the Autumn by a top team of researchers from the University of the West of England. Setting up meetings with traders/shop keepers with a not for profit consultancy that specialising in advising rural/semi rural traders about ways to develop their business - a few traders in the High Street are experiencing economic difficulties.
YOUTH SUPPORT: Completed a comprehensive questionnaire/survey with Portway Community School's pupils. This is currently being analysed and the results will be available in the near future, will hopefully be the most comprehensive youth survey conducted in the area. Young people focused - will be used to get a clear picture of issues affecting young people in Shire. Will be invaluable to SCAF and the sub groups in prioritising work areas and also encouraging the participation of young people. Cafe for young people - church led project supported by subgroup, have established a Management Committee, and applying for funds to establish Cafe in the High Street. Hoping to be up and running September/October. Together with the Community Safety action group, this group continues to work with Portway Community School, the Police and local shop keepers to address the issue of truancy.
IN ADDITION TO THESE ACTION GROUPS, TWO OTHERS HAVE RECENTLY FORMED.
DEVELOPMENT - This group is comprised of the three Chairs from action groups, and other independent representatives from the Forum. The sole purpose of this group is to explore the possibility of SCAF establishing itself as an independent organisation.
ENVIRONMENT - "Shire Greens" continues to explore opportunities for establishing a Community Park, they are also looking at other environmental issues in Shirehampton. For further information on this group contact Kate Pollard on 9829963.
If you would like more information about the Forum, or the work of any of the action groups please contact Ash Bearman, Community Development Officer at Shire Public Hall on 9829963.