What We Heard When We Knocked on Doors in Shieldfield

This spring, our Community Bees Edyta and Kaltouma, along with Steward Helen walked around Shieldfield and knocked on doors to get to know more of our neighbours. We hoped to learn more about what life is really like in Shieldfield and whether people had heard of Dwellbeing Shieldfield. It was a really lovely way to get to know people, and every single conversation taught us something.

People told us about damp and mould, noise, loneliness, and worries that had gone unanswered for a long time. They told us about wanting places to practice English, spaces for young children and activities that were free and welcoming. Many people shared the same questions and hopes about the neighbourhood. 

We also noticed something really beautiful - people in Shieldfield already look out for each other a lot. We heard about neighbours sharing food, helping with children, supporting each other with gardening or technology, and generally checking up on each other. It was so lovely to hear evidence of the love already woven through the neighbourhood. At Dwellbeing Shieldfield we would like to be part of that tapestry of care. 

Some people asked: are Dwellbeing Sheildfield’s activities really for me? And the answer is YES. Everything we do is open to all. Most activities are free. You don't need to know anyone. You can come and try something out with no obligation to stay. We can find quieter spaces if that helps. You can join as a quiet listener or jump straight in and volunteer with us. You are welcome and appreciated as you are. Details of all our upcoming events are on the whats on page

We plan to keep listening and will be knocking on more doors this summer.

If we’ve not knocked on your door yet, but you'd like to share what life is like for you, or what you'd like to see change, please chat to us at any of our events or drop us an email at dwellbeingshieldfield@gmail.com

Helen Simmons (She/Her)

Helen Simmons is a Steward at Dwellbeing Shieldfield, where she supports our community-led projects. Her research at Northumbria University is into  how neighbourhoods can grow stronger through care and collaboration. Helen’s interests are in helping to create happy, healthy and green communities where people understand that they are important, valued and belong.

https://linktr.ee/W.abisabi
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