Two young people from Netherton have been recognised for their winning entries in a community colouring competition.

Stronger community connections 

Emerging from a community event held in August, which was organised by a local community group Comm-Unity Youth to bring residents together, strengthen community connections and provide a fun day of activities for families.

Organised by Sefton Council's Community Safety and Engagement team, the competition had the theme of "What you love about your community". Young people were invited to share through art what they think makes their neighbourhood special.

It attracted a fantastic response, with entries showcasing creativity, local pride and positive messages about community life.

Local Netherton ward councillors awarded first prize to Penelope, while Josh received second prize. Both winners received Asda gift vouchers in recognition of their achievements.

Tremendous creativity

Cllr Liz Dowd, Sefton Council's Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnership Engagement, said: "It was wonderful to see so many young people taking part in this competition and sharing what they value most about their communities. The artwork demonstrated tremendous creativity and highlighted the pride that young residents have in where they live.

"Congratulations to Penelope and Josh on their winning entries and thank you to everyone who took part in both the competition and the event in August.

"Community events like this are a fantastic way of bringing people together, helping neighbours connect and creating opportunities for families to get involved in positive local activities."

Young winners

The young winners were recently invited to the NAC Centre to receive their prizes from Helen Birrell, Service Manager for Sefton Council’s Community Safety and Engagement and Hayley from Comm-Unity Youth, who played an important role in organising the successful community event.

 
Penelope's winning entry (left) and Josh's second prize entry (right)
Click on the images to see full-size. 

Sefton Council's Community Safety and Engagement team works closely with residents, partner organisations, elected members and community groups to help create safer, stronger and more connected communities. The team leads and supports a wide range of initiatives focused on community engagement, crime prevention, anti-social behaviour awareness, neighbourhood problem-solving and resident involvement.

By working with local people and partners, the team helps ensure communities have opportunities to shape local priorities and access support and activities that improve community wellbeing.

Safe, supported and connected

Cllr Dowd added: "The Community Safety and Engagement team does an important job helping residents feel safe, supported and connected to their local area. They work closely with communities, partner organisations and local groups, to tackle issues that matter to residents while also creating opportunities for people to come together and build stronger neighbourhoods.

"This work is central to Sefton Council's commitment to creating confident, resilient communities where people feel a sense of belonging and pride in the place they live."

Held on 22nd August, the Community event featured live music, games, competitions and a range of activities designed to encourage community spirit and engagement.

You can find out more about Sefton Safer Together, the local statutory Community Safety Partnership, here.