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In the heart of Leeds, a remarkable transformation is taking place. What started as a small group of concerned residents has blossomed into a thriving community movement that has cleaned up over 200 locations across the city.

The Litter Picking Heroes of Leeds began in early 2023 when Sarah Mitchell, a local resident, decided she’d had enough of seeing litter in her neighbourhood. She posted on GatherUK looking for like-minded people who wanted to make a difference. Within days, she had connected with 15 passionate volunteers.

Building Momentum

Using GatherUK’s event management tools, the group organized their first community clean-up in March 2023. The event was a huge success, with 25 people showing up to help. Word spread quickly, and by the end of the year, the group had organized over 50 events.

“GatherUK made it so easy to coordinate everything,” says Sarah. “We could set up events, manage RSVPs, and even share photos of our progress. It really helped us build a sense of community and achievement.”

Making a Real Impact

The group’s impact has been measurable:

• Over 200 locations cleaned across Leeds
• More than 1,000 bags of litter collected
• 50+ successful events organized
• A growing community of 200+ active members

But the impact goes beyond just cleaning up litter. The group has brought neighbours together, created lasting friendships, and inspired other communities across the UK to start their own initiatives.

Looking Forward

The Litter Picking Heroes of Leeds continue to grow and expand their reach. They’ve recently partnered with the local council and other environmental groups to tackle larger projects, including river clean-ups and recycling initiatives.

“We’re proof that when people come together, amazing things happen,” Sarah reflects. “GatherUK gave us the platform to turn a simple idea into a movement that’s making a real difference in our city.”

If you’re inspired by their story and want to start your own community initiative, why not search for groups in your area or learn how to create your own group?

In Edinburgh, a unique community initiative is breaking down barriers and building connections through the simple act of sharing knowledge. The Edinburgh Skills Share Network has become a thriving hub where neighbours teach neighbours, creating a stronger, more connected community.

The network was founded by James Campbell, a retired engineer who wanted to share his woodworking skills with others. After posting on GatherUK, he was amazed by the response – not just from people wanting to learn, but from others eager to share their own skills.

A Community of Teachers and Learners

What makes the Edinburgh Skills Share Network special is its reciprocal nature. Everyone is both a teacher and a learner. One week, you might be teaching someone how to fix a bike, and the next, you’re learning how to bake sourdough bread.

“It’s not about expertise,” explains James. “It’s about sharing what you know and being open to learning from others. We’ve had sessions on everything from coding to crochet, from car maintenance to calligraphy.”

Building Connections

The network has organized over 80 skill-sharing sessions since its launch, covering topics including:

• Practical skills: DIY, cooking, gardening, sewing
• Creative arts: painting, music, writing, photography
• Technology: coding basics, website building, digital skills
• Wellness: yoga, meditation, first aid, nutrition

But the real value has been in the connections made. Many participants have formed lasting friendships, and some have even started their own collaborative projects.

Success Stories

One participant, Maria, learned basic coding through the network and went on to build a website for a local charity. Another, David, taught woodworking to a group of teenagers, and they’ve since created items for a local community centre.

“The platform has been perfect for us,” says James. “We can schedule sessions, manage attendance, and keep everyone informed. It’s made organizing everything so much easier.”

The Future

The Edinburgh Skills Share Network continues to grow, with new members joining every week. They’re now planning larger workshops and even considering a community skill fair where everyone can showcase what they’ve learned.

“We’ve created something really special here,” James reflects. “A place where knowledge flows freely, and everyone benefits. GatherUK gave us the tools to make it happen.”

Interested in starting your own skills share network? Find groups near you or learn how to create your own community group.

Bristol’s streets are becoming a canvas, thanks to a dynamic group of young artists who are transforming empty spaces into vibrant community art installations. Bristol Young Artists Creating Together (BYACT) has brought colour, creativity, and community spirit to neighbourhoods across the city.

The group was started by 22-year-old art student Maya Patel, who was frustrated by the number of empty, neglected spaces in her neighbourhood. She decided to do something about it, using GatherUK to connect with other young creatives who shared her vision.

From Vision to Reality

What started as a small group of five friends has grown into a community of over 100 young artists, designers, and creative enthusiasts. Together, they’ve transformed more than 30 empty spaces across Bristol into beautiful, meaningful art installations.

“We wanted to show that art isn’t just for galleries,” explains Maya. “It belongs in our streets, our communities, our everyday spaces. And we wanted to do it together, as a community.”

Collaborative Creativity

Each project is a true collaboration. The group uses GatherUK to organize planning sessions, coordinate volunteers, and share inspiration. Recent projects include:

• A vibrant mural celebrating local history in Easton
• An interactive sculpture garden in a previously empty lot
• Community-painted benches that tell neighbourhood stories
• Light installations that brighten dark winter evenings

“The platform has been amazing for coordinating everything,” says Maya. “We can plan events, manage volunteers, share photos of our work, and keep everyone in the loop. It’s made organizing these big projects so much easier.”

Community Impact

The impact has been remarkable. Not only have the installations brought beauty to neglected spaces, but they’ve also brought people together. Neighbours who never spoke before now stop to admire the art and chat. Local businesses have seen increased footfall. And the young artists have gained valuable experience and built a supportive creative community.

“We’ve created something that benefits everyone,” Maya reflects. “The spaces look better, the community feels more connected, and we’ve all grown as artists and people.”

Looking Ahead

BYACT has big plans for the future. They’re working on a city-wide art trail, partnering with local schools, and even planning an exhibition of their work. But most importantly, they’re continuing to bring people together through creativity.

“Art has the power to transform not just spaces, but communities,” says Maya. “And GatherUK has given us the platform to make that happen. We’re proof that when young people come together, amazing things are possible.”

Inspired to start your own creative community? Explore groups in your area or discover how to create your own group.