Amidst the many challenges Covid-19 has bought to our town in the last three months, street networks across Frome have sprung into action supporting neighbours during these very difficult times. Many residents have enjoyed finally “meeting” each other properly and have supported each other with the practical things like shopping and prescription collections to ensure everyone is well looked after.
Some streets have shared gifts such vegetable plants and bunting amongst neighbours, others have a weekly neighbourhood gazette and many have been lucky enough to have talented musicians playing together with impromptu concerts and planned music nights.
Local resident Annabelle Macfadyen has been supporting a network of neighbourhood activators with Frome Town Council, where streets and neighbourhood groups have shared their experiences and learnt from each other about what has worked well and how they plan to build on the success of the last few months into the future. She explained “The network is a place for anyone involved in supporting and or coordinating a neighbourhood network to share their story and support each other, so neighbours can become better connected and make positive changes in their immediate neighbourhoods.”
The Mayor of Frome, Cllr Anita Collier, is championing neighbourhood networks, and is looking forward to meeting residents across the town through these neighbourhood groups. Anita commented: “Have you got a network in your street? We would love to hear more about what you are doing and keen to learn how the council can support you in the coming weeks and months. Please do drop us an email to tell us about the projects happening on your doorstep and what it means for you. It would be great to find an activator in your street that would like to receive updates and find out more about the network, funding opportunities or ideas for simple projects that you and your neighbours could deliver. Send an email to neighbourhoods@frometowncouncil.gov.uk or sign up here.”
Published 22nd June
