Vision for the City

This week members of Alsop “My Community Matters” group have worked with Joe Cottrell and Fran D’Arcy from Together Liverpool. Fran spoke to students about the importance of building stronger communities where people work together for the common good.

Fran spoke about the 40^th anniversary of the publication of the Faith in the City report. She meeting communities across Liverpool City Region to share stories of action and impact. These stories will help form the foundation of the “Vision for the City” manifesto. Fran was very keen to listen to the voices of young people who seek to bring real change to their neighbourhoods.

Fran writes: “ The Alsop My Community Matters programme is such an important and enriching opportunity for young people to not only have that space and time to reflect on what is important to them and their community, but putting that thought into action is important to bring about aspirational hopes and dreams. It was such a lovely group, and their contributions were so thoughtful and considered – a real joy to read. I was very impressed by your Wednesday evening programme – the variety of activities and options for students to get involved with. It was encouraging to see how Alsop promotes the young people to use their gifts and talents to help others, and as a way for them to develop, whilst giving them that space to hear inspirational stories and testimonials, and the opportunity to meet external visitors.”

Alsop students spoke passionately about their personal values and why these are important. They also shared the issues that are of concern and their worries. One student shared:

“I think kindness is so important because kindness is everything. You would not have charity and friendship if it wasn’t for kindness in people.”

Other young people spoke about their concerns about housing and future employment opportunities.

The “Vision for the City” manifesto is part of Faith in the City 40^th Anniversary event to be held in this autumn, engaging with young people, residents, faith communities and civic leaders.