Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Community reporters wanted in Huncoat

by Ethos public relations

Hyndburn Homes has received funding from The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education's (NIACE) Transformation Fund to support a project in Huncoat which will see local people developing their multi media skills.

The £56,463 project will be delivered by Hyndburn Homes in association with People's Voice Media, a not for profit organisation which specialises in working with local communities to develop community reporting.

Nigel Fenton, Acting General Manager for Hyndburn Homes said: "This is great news for the local community. This project will engage local people and see them acting as community reporters. It will train them how to use new media to capture the views of their neighbours. Eventually it is hoped that the people we train will then go on to train others in the techniques they have learned."

The project hopes to attract around 45 learners who will be supported by staff from Hyndburn Homes as well as residents from Salford who have been through a similar course with Peoples Voice Media.

As well as providing local people with new skills it is hoped that some people may use their knowledge to enhance their employment opportunities as they develop their confidence in the use of new media.

"We hope to be able to create a community specific Wiki website and establish a minimum of two Skype interaction points that will link two different local communities," said Nigel. "This is a great opportunity for local people to disseminate news, views and information between themselves."

If you would like to be involved in this project contact Jess or Teresa 0161 743 3537.

Posted at 18^th November 2009