We are residents of Blackpool in seasonal work, renting, on benefits or struggling with poor health or disability.  Our regular lunches and days out are a natural way to hear what our neighbours need.  At a time when only one in three people votes in local elections, we are bridging the gap between residents and decision-makers.

Over the last five years we have pursued answers in cases of fly-tipping, disabled rights, hospital transport and child safety online. We are improving services, access, accountability and the sense of belonging to Blackpool.

We are entirely funded by grants. Thank you to our partners NHS, Rank Foundation, Migrant Help and the government (Household Support and Community Cohesion funds).

We take our studio around town, recording residents’ stories. You can find our podcasts on our Facebook page, The Other Side of Blackpool.

Our vision is for people who are disadvantaged and living in poverty in Blackpool to have a powerful voice and an equal say in the decisions which impact their lives. We have no agenda about the kinds of issues we pursue, but where a resident sees a need in the town, we create a project and a support team and get to work.

As far as possible we engage our residents in paid work to guide the change they see is possible. This journey often takes us beyond local councils to talk to big powerful companies and national institutions such as the Home Office, police and NHS.