Residents in Liverpool's L8 area are invited to a free Community Awareness Day on Thursday, 9 October, designed to connect them with a wide array of local support services. The event, held at the PAL Centre, is a collaboration between Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, and the charity Savera UK.
The day aims to showcase available resources, foster community connections, and raise awareness of important social issues, including 'honour'-based abuse and harmful traditional practices. Attendees can expect free food, interactive activities, and direct access to numerous local organisations.
Key Takeaways
- What: A free Community Awareness Day for L8 residents.
- When: Thursday, 9 October, from 10am to 3pm.
- Where: The PAL Centre, Liverpool L8 2TF.
- Who: Organised by Liverpool City Council, Merseyside Police, and Savera UK.
- Why: To connect residents with support services, strengthen community ties, and provide information on sensitive topics like 'honour'-based abuse.
A Hub for Community Support and Connection
The upcoming Community Awareness Day in L8 is more than just an event; it's a strategic initiative to bring vital services directly to the people who need them. From 10am to 3pm, the PAL Centre will transform into a central hub where residents can gather information, receive advice, and engage with service providers in an informal and welcoming setting.
The event will feature a series of information stalls staffed by local organisations. This provides a unique opportunity for residents to have one-on-one conversations with experts on housing, health, employment, and community safety. In addition to practical support, the day is designed to celebrate the local community, with free food and refreshments available to all who attend.
The Liverpool Neighbourhood Model
This event is a practical application of Liverpool City Council’s Neighbourhood Model. This city-wide strategy focuses on working closely with local partners and residents to address specific community needs. The model's core goals are to improve overall wellbeing, reduce inequalities, and build a more inclusive city by empowering neighbourhoods from the ground up.
A Partnership for a Stronger L8
The strength of the Community Awareness Day lies in its collaborative foundation. The partnership between Liverpool City Council’s Neighbourhood Team, Merseyside Police, and Savera UK demonstrates a multi-agency approach to community wellbeing. Each partner brings a unique specialism to the event, ensuring a comprehensive range of support is available.
Merseyside Police's involvement aligns with its Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which prioritises being visible and responsive to community concerns. For the police, this event is a crucial platform for listening to residents and building the trust necessary for creating safer neighbourhoods. Savera UK's participation brings a focus to sensitive and often hidden issues, providing a safe space to discuss harmful practices.
About Savera UK
Savera UK is a leading national charity dedicated to ending 'honour'-based abuse (HBA) and harmful practices. These include forced marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and conversion 'therapy'. The charity provides life-saving support to survivors and works within communities to raise awareness and challenge harmful beliefs.
Voices from Community Leaders
Leaders from the participating organisations have highlighted the importance of the event for the L8 community, emphasising collaboration and resident empowerment.
Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins on Unity
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene, Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, focused on the event's role in building connections.
"This event is about bringing people together. It’s a chance to celebrate the strength and diversity of L8, and to make sure every resident knows the support and opportunities that are here for them. When communities connect, share and support each other, we all grow stronger, and that’s exactly what this day is about."
Cllr Lucille Harvey on L8's Spirit
Ward Member for Princes Park, Cllr Lucille Harvey, praised the area's distinct character and the importance of ensuring residents are aware of available help.
"L8 is one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of Liverpool, and events like this show the power of community spirit. It’s about making sure every resident knows what support is out there for them, while also celebrating the resilience, creativity and pride that makes L8 such a special place to live."
Merseyside Police on Accessibility
Laura Chandler, Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Merseyside Police, linked the event to the force's commitment to community engagement.
"Our Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee is all about being visible, accessible and responsive to the communities we serve. Events like the Community Awareness Day are a vital part of that promise and they give us the chance to listen and work together to build safer, stronger neighbourhoods. We’re proud to support this event on Thursday alongside Liverpool City Council, Savera UK and the people of L8."
Savera UK on Raising Awareness
Mala Saikia, Community Engagement and Networking Manager at Savera UK, explained the charity's crucial role in addressing complex social issues.
"We are committed to raising awareness about HBA and harmful practices in the community, as these issues continue to affect individuals across Merseyside. The Community Awareness Day is an opportunity to come together, open up conversations around these often-hidden issues, and connect residents in L8 with the services and support available to them."
Event Details At a Glance
For those planning to attend, here is the essential information:
- Date: Thursday, 9 October
- Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
- Location: PAL Centre, Liverpool L8 2TF
- Cost: Free entry for all residents
- Features: Free food and refreshments, information stalls, interactive activities, and access to support services.
The event is open to everyone in the L8 area. It offers a valuable chance to learn more about the local community, discover new opportunities, and connect with the organisations working to make Liverpool a safer and more supportive city for all.