The journey began with a small, committed group of women who came together to shape activities that would benefit both themselves and others. That group became the foundation for something much bigger. Over time, more groups formed, participation grew, and a vibrant, connected community based at Better Leeds Communities led by Project Manager Mel Thomas began to take shape.

Through 1Burley : 170 Voices, welcoming and culturally inclusive spaces were created, places where people could meet, share experiences and build relationships. These spaces became trusted environments not only for residents, but also for partner organisations working alongside the community.

After five impactful years, the current funding for the  1Burley : 170 Voices Community Development Project came to an end. While this moment brings sadness -  it also offers an opportunity to reflect on what has been built, shared and achieved together.

The project was launched at a time when Burley was navigating the lasting effects of Covid-19, increasing cost-of-living pressures, and the challenges of a highly transient population, the need for meaningful community development was clear. From the outset, the project placed people at its heart.
Through 1Burley : 170 Voices, provided welcoming and culturally inclusive spaces were created, places where people could meet, share experiences and build relationships. These spaces became trusted environments not only for residents, but also for partner organisations working alongside the community.

Over 5 years (2021–2026) we were proud to achieve

• 6,326 people engaged over the five years
• 582 activity sessions delivered
• 64 new volunteers recruited, trained and supported 
• 485 volunteers undertook training and development opportunities 
• 63 taster activities were delivered
• 28 structured courses and workshops were delivered
• 35 seasonal events were delivered
• 79 holiday sessions were delivered

At the centre of this work has been the growth and development of local volunteers. The volunteer pathway started with participation in safe, welcoming activities. As confidence grew, individuals stepped into informal volunteering roles, supporting sessions, welcoming families and contributing ideas.

With ongoing supervision, coaching and learning opportunities, volunteers built skills in leadership, facilitation and communication. Many went on to take on roles as group leaders and to take on specialist roles, to  delivering sessions independently, mentoring others, and pursuing further training, education and employment.As one volunteer shared:
“I never thought I could lead a session. Now I support others.”

Participants themselves describe the impact best:
“I didn’t know anyone when I first came. Now I feel part of something.”

And partners recognised the value of what was created:
“This is a trusted space for meaningful engagement.”

Our sincere thanks to our funders – The National Lottery
This work would not have been possible without the support of The National Lottery Community Fund, whose investment enabled the project to grow, adapt and respond to local needs during the life of the project.

Our special thanks and appreciation
Most importantly, thanks go to the Burley community, to everyone who took part, shared their time, and helped shape what 1Burley : 170 Voices became. Your openness, resilience and willingness to connect made this project what it was.
While the funding for this project itself has now ended, its impact continues, in the relationships built, the confidence gained, and the community spirit that remains.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.

Better Leeds Communities is proud to reaffirm its deep and ongoing commitment to communities across Leeds, building on the strong legacy created over the past five years. We exist to bring people together — to strengthen connections, nurture community cohesion, and create welcoming, safe spaces where communities and partners can meet, collaborate and grow. 

Comment from the Chair – Mrs Kully Richardson
“I began my journey with Better Leeds Communities as a community volunteer and was encouraged and supported to apply to become a Trustee. Since becoming Chair in January 2025, I have seen first-hand the huge impact this project has had on our local community. Thank you to all our leaders and participants for your dedication.
We remain committed to supporting BLC’s vision by offering guidance on housing, money matters, and wider community support. Our doors are always open.
We are also focused on identifying and securing funding that will help embed and sustain the legacy of our projects for years to come.”

Comment from the CEO – Ms Rajo Saira
“This project played a vital role in addressing a long-standing gap where communities had previously struggled to access safe, inclusive spaces to meet, build relationships, share experiences, and develop collective aspirations and goals.
At the heart of Better Leeds Communities’ work is a firm belief that every person has value, a voice, and the potential to shape their own future. We are committed to building on the legacy of this project by continuing to support inclusive communities where people feel heard, respected, and valued.
We will continue to provide safe and trusted community spaces in which the voices and needs of diverse communities are recognised, heard, and central to decision-making. We believe that strong, community-based assets are critical to sustainable change, and we remain committed to strengthening these assets through meaningful engagement and partnership working.
Our role is to create the conditions for communities to thrive - by listening, building trust, and working alongside local people and organisations so that the aspirations, experiences, and contributions of diverse communities directly influence and shape our services and support across Leeds.

We welcome any donations and grants  to support our community work – thank you.