Terrence Hill (L) and Shirley Knight (R) from the Moulsecoomb LAT

The Moulsecoomb Local Action Team joined other local groups at a Community Housing Fair on campus yesterday (Wednesday 7 February). The aim of the fair was to give students information about living in the local area as well as opportunities to meet with different groups from across the city.

Representatives from the Moulsecoomb Local Action Team (LAT) came to meet students and talk to them about their work in Moulsecoomb and the surrounding areas.

The Moulsecoomb LAT, chaired by Councillor Anne Meadows, meet on a monthly basis to talk about issues affecting local residents, such as access to public transport and social isolation amongst the elderly. They then work with other local organisations to try and address them.

Terrence Hill, who has lived in Moulsecoomb for nearly all of his life, was one of the residents at the fair. He’s passionate about helping his local community and has been a member of the Moulsecoomb LAT since retiring.

“I’m a proud Moulsecoomb resident and I really enjoy living here. The Local Action Team is here to make a positive difference to our local community in any way we can.”

Representatives from the Universities of Sussex and Brighton also attend the LAT’s meetings. Terrence thinks it’s good to see people from the Universities joining them in their discussions:

“There can be a bit of a gap between residents and students, and we want to bridge that gap and be more connected to the universities.”

Shirley Knight, who has lived in Bevendean for over 20 years, is also a member of the LAT: “Being at today’s Community Housing Fair has given us a chance to be the friendly face of local residents. It’s nice to meet students and tell them a bit more about what we do.”

As well as meeting on a regular basis, the LAT work with the Council’s City Clean team to help improve the appearance of the local area. They also help to support the work of other community groups, particularly those which promote healthy living.   

“It’s great that Terrence and Shirley could attend the fair as we’re really keen on helping students and local residents to build positive relationships” says Lucy Walker, Housing Officer at the University.

The Community Housing Fair was organised by Housing Services and is one of several events taking place during the University’s Refreshers Week for students.