At East Marsh United, we believe in the power of people and place — and this week, we had the honour of welcoming some very special visitors who share that belief deeply.
We were thrilled to spend the day with the team from the Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods (ICON), chaired by Baroness Hilary Armstrong. ICON’s vital mission is to influence government policy by championing a simple but transformative idea: that funding should be directed to the communities who need it most, and who know best how to use it.
Throughout the day, at the Salvation Army base on Duncombe Street and during a tour of the East Marsh, we shared stories, swapped ideas and showcased the work we’ve been doing in the ward — from community-led housing and neighbourhood stewardship to empowering local voices.
Together, we reflected on the big and small ways grassroots action, deep listening and genuine collaboration can shape a fairer, stronger future.
What stood out most was how closely aligned our values are. Like ICON, we believe change happens with communities, not to them — and that real transformation starts when people are given the tools, trust and opportunity to lead.
To the ICON team: thank you. Your encouragement, insights and support mean the world. We’re proud to stand alongside you in the movement to put power back where it belongs — in the hands of the people.
Let’s keep building communities where everyone has a voice and a stake.
