New Community Project Aims to Amplify Local Voices in Leeds

April 30, 2026 Off By

City of Neighbours initiative to focus on Beeston, Holbeck, Hunslet and Riverside

A new community-led project called City of Neighbours is set to launch in May 2026 in the Leeds wards of Beeston and Holbeck, and Hunslet and Riverside. The initiative aims to develop activities and services that respond directly to the needs and challenges identified by local residents.

Project Structure and Objectives

City of Neighbours is being run by Leeds Sanctuary, a local charity with experience in community-building and wellbeing work. The project will unfold in two phases:

Phase One: A Leeds Sanctuary practitioner will be available within existing local services to offer informal listening sessions. This will provide an opportunity for residents to share their experiences and concerns.
Phase Two: Insights gathered from these conversations will inform the development of new activities, communities, or services. These will be co-produced with local people to ensure solutions are grounded in lived experience rather than externally imposed.

Anna Bland, Director of Leeds Sanctuary, emphasised the importance of collective action and listening in creating meaningful change. She said the project aims to create spaces where people feel valued, connected, and empowered to influence positive community change.

Funding and Long-Term Commitment

The City of Neighbours project is funded by the Inner South West Community Committee. Leeds Sanctuary views this initiative as the start of a long-term commitment to working alongside residents in Inner South West Leeds to build stronger and more responsive communities.

About Leeds Sanctuary

Leeds Sanctuary hosts communities and events, and develops campaigns and resources to support belonging, flourishing, and transformation within Leeds. The organisation focuses on creating sanctuary spaces for marginalised groups, fostering supportive relationships that can lead to positive change in individuals’ circumstances and society.