Keeping positive with community groups T
here has been a rise in community cohesion during the last year, and two local groups in Bromsgrove have shown that giving something back and “paying it forward” can have many positive benefits. Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful (KBB) and Bromsgrove ROCKS! are two groups which have brought people together and helped to spread a little joy - and the popularity of both groups continues to grow. The groups stay connected via Facebook where Bromsgrove ROCKS! have over 4,600 members and Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful recently surpassed the 1000-member milestone on their Facebook page. Despite the lockdown restrictions putting the monthly group litter picks on hold, individuals and family groups have been heading out to clean up their local areas. The recent half-term was a great opportunity for new members to take up the challenge with inspiration coming from Capt Sir Tom Moore and from seeing other members doing their bit and posting their work on the Facebook page. One family set out to collect 100 pieces of litter and are now hooked on the pastime. It is certainly well documented that activities like litter picking are good for your physical and mental health and general well-being. An outdoor activity with a feel-good factor and community benefit! KBB supports a team of Duke of Edinburgh Award students who signed up to litter pick for the volunteering element of the scheme. The students began litter picking close to home but are now carrying out more targeted picks in areas where there is a build-up of litter, like the industrial estates. The numbers participating in the scheme are increasing, and each student is supported with a branded vest, litter picker and hoop thanks to funding from County Councillors. Painted rocks and litter picking go hand in hand.The premise behind Bromsgrove ROCKS! is to hide painted rocks, post a picture if you find one, and re-hide it for someone else to find.This fun pastime has created a wonderful community in Bromsgrove and encourages people to be out and about in a safe way. KBB themed rocks are helping to spread the “please don’t litter” message, and other rocks, such as kindness rocks spread a little love around. Finding a painted rock during your litter pick is a super reward. In these difficult times, both local groups have helped to create a focus away from the challenges of lockdown, and as the restrictions begin to lift small group activities will be resuming outdoors. Keep a look out for the KBB organised group picks star ting again in April, and why not go out on a painted rock hunt during the Easter holidays? If you see any KBB members in their white tabards in and around the district, picking up litter, show your support with a wave, a toot of the horn or a thank you. If you’re on Facebook, do get involved with Keep Bromsgrove Beautiful and Bromsgrove ROCKS! - everyone is welcome.
30 Completely Bromsgrove
by Jo Slade
