Why do I volunteer for the Uckfield Neighbourhood Plan?

Last Sunday evening I was looking over the top of my laptop screen, half-watching a favourite TV programme. Half-watching, because I was busy scheduling tweets for two local voluntary groups. Why was I bothering? How did I get tangled up in things like the Uckfield Neighbourhood Plan?

Before going any further I had better explain what the neighbourhood plan is.  The web site says ...

Your help is needed to draw up a Neighbourhood Plan for Uckfield that establishes what the priorities are for green spaces, transport improvements and recreational and community facilities.

The Neighbourhood plan is not a Town, District or County Council initiative or project. It is a plan to be created and owned by residents. If you get involved, you have the opportunity to shape the future of the area you live in.

In my mind, this means creating a plan for future development that helps us avoid nasty surprises.

Holy Cross, Uckfield

My involvement started at the Clubs and societies event described in the Uckfield News.  I was curious about the information lying on a table and had a look. Among the papers, there was a questionnaire, which I was filling in when an acquaintance suggested that I might like to join the group creating the plan.

I stammered and made excuses. “I’m already too busy. I probably can’t get to those meetings anyway. I don’t know anything about planning.”

“That’s OK" he said "There are different themes that need to be looked into.”

Hmm. Environment? Any of you who have been anywhere near my writing will know that I enjoy nature, interesting buildings etc.

“Maybe Environment. I’m up for a little light bunny hugging!”

And so it began.  I went to a meeting where a small group plotted out areas important for nature on a draft map.  I was able to bring useful knowledge to this meeting thanks to the power of social media. At this point I want to thank “HT” and “S” for sharing their knowledge with me. Also, thank you to everyone who commented on the map, after I posted it on Facebook and Twitter. 

Of course this is only a tiny part of the picture. There is also housing, transport and much else to be considered. We need more people to help with the plan so we can do our town justice.  I’ve decided to do some work with social media.  I’ve been posting information and questions to Twitter and Facebook for a couple of weeks now.

I’m familiar with using Twitter but being an administrator on a Facebook page is new to me. There is a different rhythm to it, which I am learning as I go.  I’ve been amazed at just how generous people are with their knowledge of the town.  Some individuals are sniffy about social media but, for me, Facebook and Twitter are just tools that put you in contact with people. These people bring with them fantastic experience and knowledge that can help in all sorts of ways. 

So to come back to my original question - Why do I volunteer for the Uckfield Neighbourhood Plan?

My answers are:

• If we set up a plan based on local knowledge, maybe we can help the town to avoid nasty surprises.
• By working with the group and the people who contribute knowledge through social media etc. I can learn more about the town that I live in.
• I can put my analytical/research skills and love of nature to practical use.
• I can network with some amazing people.
• Through working in the group, I can pick up some new skills and polish some existing ones.

So it’s not all noble. I fully expect to get something back. But that’s volunteering – it’s a two-way street.  There are all sorts of things that need to be done – so please look out for ways to get involved.