Residents flock to launch of 'Neighbour from Heaven' award

Scores of residents flocked to launch the search for the most heavenly residents in Birmingham and the Black Country.

The new award scheme was unveiled at the Accord Housing Association sell out ‘Streets Ahead’ residents’ festival to celebrate European Neighbours’ Day yesterday.

Over a hundred residents and their children gathered at Birmingham’s REP Theatre to launch the new ‘Making a Difference’ awards and celebrate neighbourliness.

The Making a Difference awards aim to celebrate the commitment and hard work of Accord residents’ who make a real difference in their neighbourhoods.

Residents were also able to explain to Accord how they think their communities can be improved.

A graffiti wall and Big Brother-style video diary box were set up for residents’ to make suggestions on how to improve the areas where they live.

Mandy Holcroft, Accord’s Assistant Director of Housing Services, said the day had been an overwhelming success.

“Streets Ahead was our chance to celebrate neighbourliness with our residents and their children in a really fun and innovative way.

“It means a great deal to us at Accord that we can give residents the chance to come together and share their views about their neighbourhoods.

“We are committed to creating communities where people want to and are proud to live, and with the help of all our good neighbours we will continue to strive to do this.”

As well as helping to launch the awards, residents were also involved in deciding what prizes to award for it.

There are three categories:

• Neighbour from Heaven
• Going Green
• Exceptional Young Person (under 25s)

Accord’s main offices are in West Bromwich, Darlaston and Birmingham.