Two new Pathfinder sites have been approved in West Leeds

An innovative community development program is to be expanded – including the Bramley and Kirkstall areas.

The move follows a decision by Leeds City Council to build on the success of its Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) program and introduce three new Pathfinder sites in Bramley (Bramley Baths), the Hawksworth Wood area, in Kirkstall (HAVA) and Little. London and Woodhouse (Oblong). The introduction of the three Pathfinder sites brings the total in the city to 17.

Each new site will use an ABCD Community Builder to identify different assets that exist in each area and seek to explore how they can leverage and build on the capacities, strengths and skills of residents to deliver citizen-led initiatives that try to shift the power back. in the hands of the local community.

Since 2013, ABCD in Leeds The program has played an important role in providing a safe space for local people to lead and make the changes they want to see in the communities where they live.

The ABCD model is based on focusing on what is strong in an area, creating a positive environment where people feel empowered to share their skills, knowledge, gifts and ideas with each other. This community-led approach created social connection and citizen-led action by building friendships and mutual change, which improved the health and well-being of the local people living there. Initiatives undertaken ranged from dance and art groups to community choirs, gardening projects and sharing cooking skills, to coffee mornings and knitting groups!

Preparation work is now underway with each new ABCD at the Leeds Pathfinder site, with individual launches expected to take place in the summer.

Jenny Willetts, Business Development Manager, Bramley Baths, said: “We are very pleased to be one of the recipients of the ABCD grant in Leeds. Supporting this way of working in the Bramley community will create so many positive connections, experiences and opportunities for its residents.”

HAVA Chair Cherie Cartwright said: “HAVA and KVDT are delighted to have been awarded funding to employ an ABCD Community Builder for Hawksworth Wood.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to empower our community by listening to them and building on their strengths. We are lucky to have a diverse community with great ideas and experience.

“Our ABCD Community Builder will support connecting this knowledge, bringing more community together to create positive change.”

Councilor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, public health and active lifestyles, said: “We are delighted to be able to announce the introduction of three new ABCDs to Leeds Pathfinder sites, which will serve communities across Bramley, Little. London and Woodhouse and Hawksworth Wood area.

“Not only do our Pathfinder sites, run by local groups, give residents an opportunity to learn new skills and discover hidden talents, but also crucially give them the support they need to contribute and contribute to positive change that reflects their individual needs. communities.”

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