Thank you Mr Mayor
Never did I think that my passion for Place based working and
councillors at the heart of it would be so rapidly pushed to the forefront
because of what is happening today in our communities.
I know you will agree that this has placed significant
challenges on our citizens and communities response to the pandemic across
Kirklees, especially our most vulnerable. It has also highlighted the inequalities
that already existed across this Country, and within our communities here in
Kirklees. Which we are committed to addressing.
Despite the challenges we have local councillors who have
stepped up and been at the heart of that response, and we have all witnessed or
been part of these acts of kindness and support that reflect the very best of
our local communities and our public services. (Food Banks,
Volunteering, support working and much more)
Volunteers, mutual aid groups, anchor organisations and the
third sector have all been committed.
They have come together with the council and its partners to deliver a
community response that has been fundamental in supporting local people through
very difficult times. My appreciation goes to TSL, Batley Foodbank, 2020
Foundation, Chickenley Hub, Moonlight Trust Zachariah Mosque, Durha Islam, Moonlight
Trust, Fusion Housing, Dewsbury South Covid 19 Action Group.
I am sure when my other colleagues rise to speak they will
mention others organisations.
The report we are about to discuss captures the work that
has taken, place over recent months to establish our community response. The approach is indicative of our commitment
to place based working, a commitment that is about working alongside our
citizens in true partnership. (Bottom up). Place based work can lead to sustainable,
innovative solutions that support local services to respond effectively, to
individuals, families and their communities.
We have the biggest opportunity here to Lead our
communities, facilitate or join/support work in partnership with organisation
in the Voluntary sector. I thought, I
would share with you some words that have come through from our Citizens,
community groups, volunteers, and what they want from us.
• Brighter
Future
• Collaboration
• Partnerships
• Connection
• Community
• Listened too
• Connectedness
• Hope
This is an opportunity now for all councillors to shape and
inform what happens next as we begin to enter a phase of recovery. Again
I say who better that knows the local intelligence and support networks within
their communities. You’re local Councillor.
Before I end I want to say a special Thank you to Jacqui
and all your staff that continue to work tirelessly to provide service
continuity, this is from the back office to the staff out there in our communities.
A special mention is to the members of KNH staff who have
worked around the clock to ensure our Food networks and deliveries have been
achieved.
Thank you to all Kirklees Councillors you are amazing you
have started the journey on Place based working.
