Changemakers is leading three pilot projects to support communities in Dundee, one of which is in Whitfield. The project aims to develop activities, connect established groups and individuals, and build awareness of and celebrate projects already happening, all to create better community engagement.
Back in February ScrapAntics held a family day which included food, art and play with Changemakers supporting a consultation to understand what the people of Whitfield would like to see in their community. Connections were made, relationships were established, and importantly, we heard directly from residents.
Following that first session, we ran a microgrants exercise where pots of £300 of funding were given to local groups to support community activities. These included tree planting and supplies for Ballumbie Primary School and catering for a Tea Dance at Lifegate Church. A local men’s gardening group benefitting in buying trees to brighten up the newly renovated bowling green that is now used by different groups. St Francis Primary school’s allotment was treated to new sand and much needed renovation to its sensory play areas.
Since then, we’ve brought together community groups such as the men’s gardening group and Lifegate Church, with Dundee City Council, Angus Housing, and local changemakers from the Whitfield Community to discuss and decide what to focus on and how to build the confidence and connections that enable local people to own the solutions. We also met with What Matters 2 U, another great organisation doing great work to build a solid network and give the people of Whitfield the support to do more.
We’re looking forward to our next session on 21 October at Roundhouse to consider activities covering everything from community clean-ups and outdoor toilet access, to climate change observations and bicycle usage.
Even more exciting though, is the Whitfield SOUP taking place on 25 October at Lifegate Church. We can’t wait to see what members of the community will pitch for! To see what the SOUP is all about and maybe even apply, visit the event page.
Ultimately, over the next six months, we want to help build trust and self-belief by bringing individuals and groups together on a regular basis, and create a sense of ownership amongst the people who want to see change happen at their local level.
We are currently recruiting someone from Whitfield to join our small team as a community journalist. Connecting with local individuals and groups, sharing events and promoting the successes and stories of the next 6 months. We look forward to sharing their stories soon.
If you want to get involved, come out and meet up - we have 4 days of Play planned. There will be art, snacks and play! All Welcome 11am -3pm on:
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th November
Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December
The Old Bowling green, Whitfield Community Garden DD4 0ND