How we’ve been making Richmond upon Thames more social

Our vision for the borough is a place that considers its diversity when addressing the community’s needs. That starts by listening to and supporting residents as we set our agenda and this month is a perfect example of how we work to make everyone feel like they belong.

It is fantastic to live in a borough where so many people want to help others and improve their communities. Carers Week (5 – 11 June) took place earlier this month and was the perfect opportunity to recognise the social contributions unpaid caretakers make to their families and the wider community – there was also a special event for LGBTQ+ carers to celebrate Pride. Our priority is to create an inclusive borough that makes everyone feel safe and welcome. That’s why throughout June, there has been a variety of exciting activities such as the Pink Proms and Pride Picnic dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQI+ community.

The borough’s diversity is its greatest strength, that’s why we are proud to support our residents in connecting with, learning about, and welcoming everyone, regardless of their background. Last year, we committed to becoming a Borough of Sanctuary by providing a safe place for those who need it. During Refugee Week (19 – 25 June), we highlighted the work done to achieve this goal and the resilience of those who have had to flee from their homelands and learn to thrive in a new environment. The week was also marked by the unveiling of a special plaque which was gifted to the people of Richmond upon Thames for their generosity from the people of Ukraine.

As the temperature has risen, we’ve empowered residents to lead change globally by working with local community groups, charities and young people. From Great Big Green Week (10 – 18 June) to Clean Air Day (15 June), there has been plenty of opportunities for local people to take climate action. Our commitment to supporting the incredible work being done to improve the borough resulted in 35 microgrants being given to those promoting positive behaviours around sustainability. We’re also supporting the next generation of green leaders through the Richmond and Kingston Youth Council Climate Change Fund, which will see five youth-led projects work to make the borough more sustainable.

We want to be social leaders, that’s why we are promoting a future that considers the sustainable, long-term development of the borough. This isn’t possible without hearing from residents so we can deliver practical suggestions that celebrate our social fabric. This month, we have encouraged residents to share their opinions on the direction of our new Night Time Strategy so that everyone still enjoys the best of the borough, even after the sun sets. You can still have your say on this now.

For Richmond upon Thames to continue thriving we need realistic plans that make the most of our resources, providing local solutions to local challenges, including how we make sure our physical spaces support our communities to be social. June has given residents an opportunity to see this in action as following extensive consultation since March 2020, the Local Plan has reached the final stage of feedback. This final round (also known as the ‘Regulation 19’ version) breaks down how we plan to address future challenges including climate change, health, the cost of living and accessibility.

As a White Ribbon organisation, we know feeling like you belong means you also feel safe. June saw the extension of the Safe Space at Richmond Station, which is part of our long-term approach to improve safety in the borough. Borough residents showed their support for social issues and solidarity with women by taking part in a White Ribbon Walk. These initiatives are some of the many examples of the borough working as a community to make everyone safer. 

Finally, June saw the first ever Arts & Ideas Festival (16 June -2 July). This year’s theme, ‘Together & Change’, sums up how we’re working towards becoming more social. The programme, which includes the cosmic installation ‘Gaia’ and Marie Klimis’ ‘I am a Bird’ which sums up the migrant experience, was developed alongside our partners to explore topics such as personal identity, environment, heritage and social justice.

Every ward of Richmond upon Thames should be thriving hub that connects residents to their local places and to each other and this is how we’re working to deliver on our vision.

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