Goal 3: Services and activities that are targeted and inclusive
What will change
- There are more activities and opportunities that strengthen resilient people and families.
- Resources are targeted to strengthen local communities and people have influence over their future.
- Children are school ready and they can all access a good education close to home.
How we will do it
- Re-establish Mixenden Activity Centre as a community asset with a viable plan for ongoing management.
- Embed Family Hubs across North Halifax and provide access to a range of services and resources for residents.
- Increase training for early years staff.
- Work with community providers to develop a framework for high-quality, sustainable youth services throughout Calderdale.
- Build on community-led approaches to investment and direct funding towards what really matters to local people.
- Train and mentor young people to develop skills to take part in making decisions.
- Build a new SEND school in Ovenden and expand provision at Ravenscliffe in Halifax.
- Promote inclusive places in schools via provision in mainstream schools and satellite specialist classes.
Why it is a priority
North Halifax has long faced significant deprivation, worsened by recent crises. This underscores the urgent need for targeted and inclusive services to support community recovery and resilience.
Residents report a decline in services, in particular in special educational needs and youth programs. The closure of essential facilities has limited access to support and social networks for those in need.
If children are not ready physically and emotionally for school, it can affect their learning and their play. There is a pressing demand for specialised programmes to address the social and educational needs of young people, especially post-pandemic.
Stakeholders also stress the importance of the community being involved, in particular young people, in making decisions. This fosters ownership and makes sure that resources are directed to services that truly meet local needs.
Prioritising targeted and inclusive services. To make sure all residents have access to necessary support and opportunities is essential to strengthen the North Halifax community.
"In North Halifax, we deserve to have outstanding facilities for the community."
Evidence base
- Almost ¼ of children in North Halifax live in poverty.
- Higher rates of school absence (9.6%) for pupils eligible for Disadvantaged Pupil Premium.
- Only 56% of children are ready to start school.
How we will assess progress
- Number of children living in low income families.
- School absence rates.
- Number of children ready for school.
Case study
Empowering community connections - Holy Nativity Church's vision for a sustainable future
Community funding initiatives like the UK Shared Prosperity Fund have empowered projects to create strong, healthy places. Where people can get the help they need in their own neighbourhood.
In North Halifax, people and community groups have deep ties and a clear understanding of community challenges.
Holy Nativity Church in Mixenden has over 70 years of experience supporting local people. They provide a welcoming space for social activities and access to financial, health and family support. The church and its volunteers also host arts events, which include live lounges and community cinema.
During COVID, they started a food pantry and holiday hunger interventions. This was in partnership with Ash Green School, local businesses and community groups.
Thanks to UK Shared Prosperity Fund support, they have embarked on an ambitious three-year project. They hope to secure funding to enhance their building and activities, which include:
- a volunteer hub;
- and a funded youth worker to bolster community engagement.
This will improve accessibility, create flexible spaces and focus on being sustainable. As well as aiming for a low carbon footprint and efficient running costs.