RESIDENTS on Droitwich’s Westlands estate have benefited from a new community project which has seen six benches installed across the neighbourhood.
The scheme has helped people spend more time outdoors and stay active and connected.
The idea came from husband and long-standing Westlands Resident’s Association members wife Tony and Lynn Libetta.
They noticed how difficult it was for some neighbours to walk around the estate without somewhere to rest.
Tony said: “A neighbour had been really ill and her doctor told her she must get out and walk.
“She was perching on a wall just to catch her breath.
“We needed benches around the estate so people could walk a bit further, stop, and feel confident getting around again.”
Lynn added: “The benches are well used and really appreciated in the community.
“People stop, chat, rest, and carry on.
“It’s bringing the community together.”
Grant funding
Thanks to a Worcestershire County Council Public Health Community Wellbeing Grant, the Residents Association has installed six benches in key locations across the estate.
Six more benches are set to be installed along walkways, near bus stops and close to green spaces. This will create safe and accessible resting points for people of all ages.
The benches are already helping residents who previously struggled with mobility.
One man who had been largely housebound is now able to walk to the shop and back once again.
Others who do not drive say the benches make everyday journeys feel manageable again.
Chris Colley from Platform Housing welcomed the project and said everyone was happy the land was being used for such a wonderful community scheme.
“We are happy to support anything that improves the estate.”
The project also links with wider community schemes.
Recalling memories
Willow Court Oral History Project is developing a memory walk. This will see QR codes on the benches sharing stories from people who have lived on the estate over the years.
This will create a trail that celebrates local history and encourages people to explore the area.
The benches will also support the Westlands Healthy Worcestershire sessions – free gentle exercise and social groups run by Worcestershire County Council across the county.
Wellbeing walks are already being planned with the benches being used as rest stops along the way.
Councillor Alan Bailes, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Although a simple idea, it is evident these benches are already making a big difference – from reducing loneliness and improving mobility to encouraging physical activity and strengthening community connections.
“This project shows what can happen when local people come together with a great idea and we are proud to support it. “
Anyone with an idea to boost wellbeing in their area can visit: worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants for more on the public health grants.
And head to: worcestershire.gov.uk/healthyworcestershire for more on Healthy Worcestershire.
