In March 2018 Walsall was selected as one of five places in England to work with government to design a long term strategy – to create a stronger and more integrated Walsall.

Walsall is becoming increasingly diverse and vibrant, but in parts of our borough communities are also divided. We were chosen because of our understanding of the challenges faced, our existing positive work and our desire to try new things to bring people and communities together.

The strategy aims to create better connected and integrated communities in Walsall where:
– people from all backgrounds live, work, learn and socialise together
– people are aware of their rights and responsibilities
– people have equal opportunities, regardless of their background

The strategy will build on existing good practice in Walsall, local knowledge and expertise, and the strength of residents and communities to make genuine change. We have identified four key priority areas for the strategy and a vision for what we want to achieve in Walsall.

1. Connecting Across Communities – Communities across the borough have opportunities to mix with others and are comfortable to do so.
2. Aspiring & Accepting Young People – Young people, regardless of where they live, have the confidence, self esteem and aspiration to fulfil their potential.
3. Contributing to Walsall – Workforces, at all levels, are more representative of the communities living in Walsall and those furthest from the job market are supported to increase skills and career prospects.
4. Living Together – Communities in Walsall are more integrated and all people play a positive part in making Walsall a good place to live.

For integration to be truly effective, it needs to be something that everyone has a role in. This isn’t just a council initiative – we all have a part to play in creating the kind of communities we want to live in. Together we will strive to make integration and opportunities for meaningful social mixing embedded and mainstreamed in the work of both the council and communities.

How to get involved?

There are a few options if you want to get involved or know more:
– We are planning to start a monthly newsletter – if you (either as a resident or an organisation) are interested in finding out more about this work, upcoming events and opportunities to get involved
– We are looking for people and organisations to promote and raise awareness of the strategy in their communities when it is launched
– We are keen to hear existing good work and local case studies

If you want to be involved in any of the above, please email Lutfur.Rahman@Walsall.gov.uk or Haroon.Ravat@Walsall.gov.uk stating if you want to: sign up to the newsletter, become a champion or share a local case study. Alternatively you can call 01922 653044 to speak to them directly.

Content published and promoted by Willenhall Liberal Democrats all at 23 Lynwood Close, New Invention WV12 5BW