Time to be a Community Superhero! In this ‘people powered’ issue of ESP we’re looking at how local people can do big things for themselves and each other to make life better in and around the city. You’ve got the power to be a super hero in your community and Peterborough City Council is keen to back your great ideas with support. They’re encouraging new projects in the city where people come together, organise themselves and volunteer. What can you do to make a difference?
Hello superhero! Superhero films are all the rage – and it’s fun to think that there are people out there ready to help and protect us. But *spoiler alert* the heroes from Hollywood aren’t real, which is truly disappointing! And yet… I’ve been finding out that in Peterborough we have many of our own. Over the past few months I’ve been talking to people across the city about what they do in their neighbourhood and community to make it a better place. From litter picking in the Ortons to looking out for their neighbours in Castor, there is a lot going on. My job, and my passion, is to get more people active in their community. And it’s great that ESP magazine is helping out in this edition, with some ideas of how. At the council we’re also looking at new ways to support community activity, as we think strong communities are the best way to improve people’s lives. It’s the small things that really matter too – and taking a little bit of time for other people. It might be as simple as saying ‘hello’, or having a chat and a cup of coffee. If you want to do something a little bigger, but you just don’t know where to start, such as starting a football group for young people, you can get in touch with PCVS. I think we all need others to help us on our way, and sometimes we just need that extra bit. Loneliness and mental health problems are on the rise, and I believe a little bit of kindness can go a long way. So as autumn draws in it’s time to dig out and dust down your capes, I know we can all be a superhero in our community! Irene Walsh City Councillor and Cabinet Member for Communities
pcvs helps develop local volunteering in Peterborough. You can email them on pcvs@pcvs.co.uk or call on 01733 342683. 20 www.espmag.co.uk
Time Credits Have you got a minute to do some good? One of the most valuable things you can give to make a difference where you live is your time, so why not be the hero of the hour by joining a new Time Credits reward scheme for volunteering. Time Credits are when you give up some time to volunteer, and afterwards you’ll get a thank you token. You can then spend this token in local businesses. So, good deeds equal good vibes and a boost for you too. Time Credits are initially coming to the Ortons and Hamptons and will eventually be available throughout Peterborough. Initially the city council is looking for communities, already working in the Ortons and Hamptons to get them involved with helping to set this up and make it work. The pilot project will be working with service and community organisations and a meeting’s being held on Tuesday October 15 at the Goldhay Centre, 105 Paynels, Peterborough. This session is aimed at organisations and community groups based in Peterborough interested in learning more about Peterborough Time Credits and its benefits. It’ll be your chance to find out all about how Time Credits can benefit your organisation, increasing capacity and community connections and develop volunteering opportunities and activities. To reserve your space please visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/tempo-time-credits17346871009 or contact willdelacruz@wearetempo.org