Community Development

Introduction

The aim of the Community Development section is to make a difference to the quality of life of local people and visitors to the Wyre Forest district. Efforts are concentrated on working in geographical hotspots and with specific target groups with a focus on equal opportunities and working in partnership to improve the health and wellbeing of residents of all ages.

The service is delivered through liaison and partnership working with key organisations to develop joint initiatives. The Community Development team brings together their knowledge and expertise to address cross-cutting issues such as social inclusion, economic development and environmental renewal. Considerable success has been achieved in accessing external funding to deliver core activities and special projects.

Wyre Forest District Council provides and supports artistic activities for the whole community. A number of regular activities are supported such as the Art and Dance Clubs and annual programmes of workshops and residencies. 2008 was the sixth anniversary of Kidderminster Arts Festival (KAF) for which a diverse range of multi-cultural events was programmed.

Read more on our Arts Development webpage

Through the play service Wyre Forest District Council has developed a number of long standing initiatives. The after school clubs run throughout the school terms and ‘Kids Klubs’ are held during holiday periods. This work compliments the work of the private sector and addresses the needs of families and young people in the local area. The Wyre Forest Play Forum was launched by the section and now is an independent group supported by the Early Years Childcare Partnership and local childcare providers.

Read more on our Play Development webpage.

The Sports Development Section is committed to developing and maintaining sporting opportunities for the whole community. With the support of lottery funding and working in partnership with the help of the Herefordshire and Worcestershire County Sports Partnership, a quality programme is being delivered called "Active Sports". This includes player, coach and club development initiatives such as running sports coach UK workshops.

Read more on our Sports Development webpage.

Community Challenge

Wyre Forest District Council hosts the Active Communities sports project called Community Challenge. Run as part of a national programme funded by Sport England, Community Challenge is a sports project that is based in the Oldington and Foley Park, Sutton Park and Broadwaters areas.

Read more information about the Community Challenge project.

The Events Section organises and supports a variety of events and activities for the local community.

The Team consists of a full-time Leisure Services Manager, three part-time Development Officers and extra staff employed on a casual basis to assist with major events.
Our aim is to make a difference to the quality of life for local people, visitors and tourists to the Wyre Forest District by providing something special and accessible to all.

We believe that by getting people 'out and about' and 'involved in the community' it will improve their health and well being and make them proud to live in the Wyre Forest.

Read more on our Events webpage

The Ranger Service undertakes active management of the District Council’s local nature reserves and natural open spaces for the preservation of their habitats, and works to enhance the experience for those that visit them. This involves working in partnership with National, Regional and County organisations to develop projects and make the most of funding opportunities.

Wyre Forest District Council is committed to exploring every opportunity to enhance the natural environment of the District and fulfil the Council’s commitment to the Bio-diversity Action Plan for Worcestershire.

Read more information on our Ranger Service webpage

Wyre Forest District Council believes that all young people have the right to enjoy a safe, friendly and welcoming environment. We will always put the interests and welfare of young people first and foremost.

Read the Council's Safeguarding Children Policy

Bewdley Museum - a surprise around every corner!

Situated in the heart of the picturesque Georgian town of Bewdley, the museum offers a friendly welcome and entertaining experience for the whole family!

Housed in a historic and unusual 18th century butchers shambles, this unique museum illustrates the growth and trades of the town as well as the crafts of the surrounding Wyre Forest area through fascinating indoor and outdoor displays.

Read more on our Bewdley Museum webpages