2025 Survery Results

What Our Community Told Us This Year

Every year we ask people in Springfield, Beech Hill and Gidlow what they think about their community, what’s working well, and what we could do better collectively.

This year, 133 people took part, and the message that comes through most strongly is simple: people are the heart of this community.

When asked what the best thing about living here is, the most common answers were about friendliness, kindness, and neighbours looking out for each other. Many people described feeling supported, knowing others in their street, and having somewhere they belong. Words like community spirit, friendship, and togetherness came up again and again.

Alongside this, people talked about the importance of activities and shared experiences. Events, groups, Playbox, gardening, trips, and community celebrations were highlighted as ways to bring people together and make the area feel more connected.

Local places also matter. Community Corner, parks, churches, and other local spaces were mentioned as important hubs where people meet, chat, and feel part of something.

There is also a mentioned of inclusion and access. Some people said they hear about events too late or miss them altogether if they’ a’re not online. Others suggested more posters, leaflets, school newsletters, and noticeboards so that everyone has a fair chance to get involved.

Overall, the feedback shows a community that cares deeply about we live, and about each other. There is pride in what already exists, and a strong desire to keep building on it together.

You can read the full survey results and detailed breakdown in PDF format here