Speke Garston Partners Conference focuses on community-led change

The second Speke Garston Partners’ Conference, held on 27 March 2026 at Partnership for Learning, brought together organisations, community groups and local services to focus on the issues that matter most to residents. Supported by Liverpool City Council and South Liverpool Homes, the event created space for honest discussion, sharing best practice, and agreeing collective actions for the months ahead. 

The day opened with reflections on how partners across Speke and Garston continue to work together to strengthen neighbourhoods: improving unused and neglected spaces, addressing environmental crime, and building a stronger sense of pride and ownership. Conversations highlighted that when residents feel connected to the places around them, communities become safer, more vibrant and more cohesive. 

A major theme throughout the conference was community safety. Attendees emphasised the importance of increasing trust and visibility between residents, the council, housing providers and local policing teams, ensuring people feel confident in reporting concerns and accessing support. 

Young people played a central role in shaping the day. Messages from youth groups across Speke and Garston offered powerful insights into both the pressures they face and the aspirations they hold. Their contributions prompted discussions on how partners can work together to create more opportunities, strengthen youth provision, and ensure young people have a meaningful voice in shaping their neighbourhood. Many attendees described this session as a highlight of the conference. 

Health partners also drew attention to growing challenges within the area, focusing on ketamine use and frailty. Their input underlined the need for a coordinated, preventative approach: one that supports physical and mental wellbeing, tackles health inequalities, and gives residents earlier access to the help they need. 

There was also focus on community cohesion, exploring how local organisations can support residents who feel vulnerable, build understanding between different groups, and help create a welcoming, inclusive environment. Partners shared examples of how community led events, strong voluntary sector networks and shared ownership of local spaces can build belonging and strengthen connections across the neighbourhood. 

Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Communities and Streetscene, said: 
“This conference shows just how committed partners in Speke and Garston are to working together for the good of local people. By listening to young people, supporting our most vulnerable, improving our shared spaces and tackling the issues that affect everyday life, we can build safer, healthier and more connected communities. The energy and honesty in the room today demonstrate what true partnership can achieve.” 

Poppy Learman, Neighbourhood Manager for Garston and Speke, said: 
“What stood out today was the strength of our community and the willingness of partners to take collective responsibility for making positive change. Hearing directly from young people was incredibly powerful. They were clear about the challenges but also hopeful about what’s possible. Together, we’re committed to turning that insight into action and supporting neighbourhoods where everyone feels valued and able to thrive.” 

Across the conference, the message was clear: meaningful change happens when partners and residents work side by side, combining local knowledge, shared priorities and a commitment to long-term collaboration.