City of York Council puts pride back into local communities

City of York Council is proud to introduce York’s new Neighbourhood Caretakers - a team that looks at improving public spaces, supporting community-led action, and putting pride in our city.

The dedicated team will work closely with residents, councillors, and volunteers to deliver visible improvements in local areas — from removing weeds and street cleaning to supporting biodiversity and climate resilience projects.

Backed by an annual £150,000 investment, the Neighbourhood Caretakers will focus on priorities identified through ward walkabouts [York has 21 wards across the city], ensuring that local knowledge and community voices shape the work being done.

The council will lead by example and will carry out the work alongside local community groups and volunteers.

Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said: “We’re creating a team that’s responsive, visible and focused on the needs of each neighbourhood by working closely with those who know it best; residents, community organisations, volunteers and councillors. The Neighbourhood Caretakers Team will help ensure that everyone feels proud of where they live. We’re prioritising cleaner, greener, public spaces across the whole city, building on and supporting the huge community involvement we already have. Together we make York better.”  

Key Features of the Initiative:

• Proactive Local Action: Caretakers will respond to issues identified by ward councillors and council staff, rather than waiting for complaints.
• Community Collaboration: supporting resident-led projects like Adopt a Verge/planter, tree planting, and weed management
• Volunteer Engagement: Building on the success of community civic groups and events like the Great British Spring Clean, the programme will expand volunteer opportunities city-wide.
• Visible Impact: Regular updates, including photos, videos, and case studies, will be shared across social media, newsletters, and local press.

The Neighbourhood Caretakers work will compliment and support wider council community action and volunteering.

There are many volunteering opportunities residents can get involved in with the council. We’ve lots of volunteers who regularly help others, develop their own skills and gain new experiences by litter picking, sweeping up leaves, community gardening, organising clean ups – and much more!

Sign up and volunteer today at  www.york.gov.uk/VolunteeringOpportunities

For more information and to follow the journey of the Neighbourhood Caretakers, visit www.york.gov.uk or follow us on social media.