Hunsonby swimmers are sitting comfortably

Neighbourhood forums are good way for local people to make decisions about the future of their community. 

There are more than 60 forums running across Cumbria where local people and councillors meet to discuss the things that matter to them. 

Community and voluntary groups can also bid for a grant from their nearest forum to help pay for new equipment or events for example.

In Eden alone, neighbourhood forum grants have helped more than 130 community groups like Hunsonby Swimming Club.

Members of the club asked the East Fellside forum for a hand in making seating at the open air pool safer for the 500 people who use it every year. 

Louise Jeffery, secretary of the swimming club says: “The grant has been a big help for us and new seating has made the pool area much more comfortable. 

“We’re really pleased with the support we’ve had from our neighbourhood forum and I’d definitely encourage other groups and societies to find out more about the help they can get, too.”

For more information on how you can get involved and have your say contact the Eden Area Support Team.