“Major Survey Launched to Examine Life in Carlisle and Surrounding Areas”
Carlisle and the surrounding rural towns and villages are the focus of a new report commissioned by Cumbria Community Foundation. Titled “Carlisle: Opportunities and Challenges,” the report aims to analyze the social needs and community issues within the city and surrounding areas. It will also highlight ongoing efforts to address disadvantage and identify opportunities for community growth and development.
In order to gather comprehensive data, a consultation process has been launched, inviting the participation of residents, workers, and students in Carlisle, Brampton, Dalston, Longtown, and the surrounding rural areas. The process kicked off with an online public meeting on July 9th, providing individuals with the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the project.
The next step in the consultation process is an online survey, accessible at www.cumbriafoundation.org/community-needs. The survey aims to gather feedback on what residents like about Carlisle, areas for improvement, and desired changes within the district over the next five years. This feedback will inform the report, which follows three similar reports produced by the Foundation since 2017, focusing on the entire county as well as West Cumbria and Furness.
To ensure the report accurately reflects the needs and priorities of the Carlisle area, a steering group has been established, comprised of local individuals and chaired by Kevin Walsh, Vice Chair of Cumbria Community Foundation. Walsh emphasizes the importance of community input, stating, “The previous reports have proved to be key resources, both for bringing people together and securing investment to address areas of need in these communities. For the Carlisle report, we will be consulting widely, from youth groups and community organisations to businesses and individuals, to get the fullest picture possible.”
Funding for the report has been provided by Kingmoor Park, Sellafield Ltd, Riverside Housing, Carlisle City Council, and Cumbria County Council. The report will be used to inform and influence key decision makers, including local authorities, government, potential philanthropists/donors, funders, healthcare providers, businesses, and third sector organisations.
The survey is estimated to take no more than five minutes to complete and can be accessed online at www.cumbriafoundation.org/community-needs. For those who prefer paper copies or have any queries, they can email carlisleneeds@cumbriafoundation.org. The survey is open to all individuals who live, work, or study in Carlisle and the surrounding areas, and their participation is highly encouraged.
