Since becoming Chair of the South Copeland Community Partnership in mid-2025, my aim has been to ensure local voices are heard, information is shared, and the community feels supported throughout the GDF process.
Alongside NWS’ Areas of Focus events in Spring 2025, the Partnership has held drop-in events, attended meetings organised by local groups, and reintroduced meetings in public with a Q&A session. These activities help us understand what matters most to local people and provide important opportunities for ongoing conversation with NWS.
Our engagement with young people has also expanded, with work alongside Millom School and Drigg Young Farmers. We look forward to continuing to build these relationships with youth groups.
We have improved our website to make information easier to access and continue to share updates through printed newsletters, social media, e-bulletins and the website.
A key focus in 2025 has been the development of a Community Vision to reflect local priorities and explore how a GDF could support long-term aspirations for the area. From 557 questionnaire responses, three key themes emerged: transport, economy and employment, and health and social care. These insights have informed a draft Vision that we will continue to refine with the community.
The Partnership also carried out residents’ surveys in March and July to better understand views on the GDF programme, the Partnership’s work, and local information needs.
Community Investment Funding has supported a wide range of local projects, with £1 million awarded in 2025, bringing total investment to £4 million since the Partnership joined the GDF process.
Finally, I would like to thank Partnership members for their commitment and collaboration. I’m pleased to welcome Millom Town Council back to the Partnership, represented by Ray Williamson, and to welcome HMP Haverigg, represented by Elaine Chapman.
We look forward to continuing this important conversation with local people in the year ahead and welcome views from anyone who would like to get involved. Here’s a snapshot report of the Partnership’s work over the last year.
Andy Pratt
Chair of the South Copeland GDF Community Partnership
Download the Snapshot Update 2025
