Community Action 

Ashfield Voluntary Action is a big supporter of communities finding solutions for themselves. Most community groups are set up when people need information or support which either is not available in their area, or doesn't work for them. Sometimes something sounds like a good idea, but might not work locally due to things like transport problems, or a lack of suitable spaces to run activities.

For this reason, AVA has always been passionate about supporting the community to develop its own solutions. This can work really well, because local people usually have a very good undestanding of what will work in their area. Home-grown ideas also usually have strong community support so vital to the ongoing success of community activities.  

One really good example of how this is beginning to work in Ashfield may be found on the Coxmoor Estate. There is a lot of interest on improving the health and wellbeing of people living on Coxmoor. Over time there has been a lot of consultation with the community to identify the issues, but the next step - turning these ideas into practical solutions has been a slower process.

With support from AVA, a handful of local people have established CRAG - Coxmoor Residents Action Group. Please ring Samantha Clarke from AVA on 01623 555 551 or email s.clarke@ashfieldvoluntaryaction.org.uk if you would like to find out more about the work that is being done on Coxmoor, or if you need support for similar ideas elswhere in Ashfield.