Jane Platt, identifiable by her bright pink polo shirt, volunteers at Wolverhampton’s Big Venture Centre.
This community hub offers discounted goods and vital support to residents in some of Wolverhampton’s most deprived areas, including Bushbury, Heath Town, and Low Hill.
Ms. Platt, who resides nearby, feels the struggle is widespread, impacting even herself. While the local council maintains its commitment to supporting residents, some feel neglected.
“My baby won’t even play in the streets,” explains Ms. Platt, a resident near the Scotlands Estate.
The 45-year-old, a long-time volunteer, credits the centre with skill development and improved mental well-being, calling it one of the few places she feels safe.
“You avoid eye contact,” Ms. Platt shares, “You don’t know what you might hear.”
Tracey Walters, a 61-year-old lifelong resident and Big Venture Centre beneficiary, echoes these sentiments, expressing a sense of neglect despite enjoying her community.
She advocates for increased children’s activities and improved waste management, stating, “I don’t think Wolverhampton Council cares about this area.”
The council counters with figures: over £121,000 in school holiday funding for Scotlands children, regular litter cleanups, and 112 completed road and streetlight repairs.
However, another anonymous centre user describes the area as “scruffy,” citing drug use and anti-social behavior stemming from a lack of youth activities.
“It used to be nice,” she laments, “Now it’s just empty, smashed-up houses, needles everywhere, and no one cares.”
Despite the challenges, volunteer director David Chadwick emphasizes the strong community spirit, stating, “Without us, many families would suffer.”
City of Wolverhampton Council assures its collaboration with police and other organizations to ensure safety and support, highlighting millions in regeneration grants and the community asset transfer that established The Big Venture Centre.
“We hold regular community meetings for direct resident engagement,” a spokesperson adds.
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The Hub offers mental health support and guidance, as well as a space for local groups.
The changes have been made possible by a grant of £75,000.
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