Young people from Westbury Junior School’s TEAM10 community group have been helping to brighten community spaces in Westbury through a series of planting projects supported by Selwood Housing’s Stronger Communities Fund.
The project has already made a visible difference at Westbury Community Project, where new bespoke planters have been built by community volunteers at The Shed, installed and filled with seasonal planting to create a welcoming display for visitors throughout the year. Supported by Kevin Down, manager of WCP, and despite delays and challenging weather, Shirley King, manager of the café, has supported the project daily along with support from TEAM10 members, volunteers and local residents who have worked together to care for the plants and keep the space looking its best.
The planting has brought people together and encouraged a real sense of pride, ownership and community spirit. Local residents have offered to water plants, donate items and help maintain the space, while children and young people have been inspired to think about how they can make a positive difference where they live.
Talking to Angie from Selwood Housing, one young person involved in the planting said they enjoyed being part of TEAM10 because they “wanted to make a difference and help their community”.
This reflects the heart of the project, bringing generations together, improving shared spaces and showing what can be achieved when people work side by side.
Further planting is planned for the autumn at Westbury Junior School and Queens Court, helping even more people enjoy greener, brighter and more welcoming community spaces. Selwood Housing is proud to support TEAM10 and the local volunteers who are helping their community grow.
TEAM10 coordinator, Susannah Duval, said:
“I can see a real change in attitude, with so many people pitching in to help, and the children are so excited by it. The dedication of our team members, along with the support of their parents who generously give up their own time, has been incredible. We’ve also been overwhelmed by the support from Wiltshire Council’s Community Conversations Lead, Westbury Council’s rangers, Selwood Housing, and the growing commitment shown by local residents. Together, they have helped create something special for the community.
The whole process, from applying for funding to getting the projects started was made easy with the help and support from Angie Blackford, Selwood Housing customer involvement and communities facilitator and neighbourhood manager, Lyndsey Powell.”
