The Big Leeds Chat roadshow took us to Armley Moor for the Armley Festival. We were thrilled to be at this free community event, among stalls, live music, arts, crafts, theatre and food from around the world.
We met 24 people during our Big Leeds Chat in Armley. What did people say in Armley?
The mental health impact of the pandemic was felt keenly in Armley, and lots of the people we met at the fair told us how lonely they had been. Armley residents would like to be supported with this in different ways. Some suggested that organised activities and more informal, social ways of learning how to take care of themselves would be a really positive way of making a change to people’s mental health, while others interested in or had good experiences of more traditional routes.
A lot of people said that street drinking and antisocial behaviour were problems that needed to be addressed in Armley. Many acknowledged that there needed to be more help for people struggling with alcoholism.
Not everyone in Armley had found it easy to get help from their GP, and a couple of locals told us how they had been on a waiting list for heart treatment (for 3 years in one person’s case). When people felt services weren’t there for them, this could amplify their distress – but, equally, when people did feel supported, it made a big difference.
People suggested that more (and better used) community spaces and events would make Armley happier and healthier, with some pointing out that there was very little for young people in the area.
What next steps for Armley did this chat inspire in our decision-makers?
“Think about support networks for 40-60’s.”
“Jobs and skills investments in Armley. Jobs are the key to everything.”
“Embedding MH awareness earlier, i.e. in schools. Outdoor events and using resources already in place to promote health and wellbeing. Ensure equitable access to schemes.”
“Think about how we could redevelop volunteer exchange.”
