Involved customer, Martin Hearn, shortlisted for a Community Ambassador Award

Martin, a dedicated and peer-selected community ambassador for Central Mews in Middlesbrough, has made an extraordinary difference in the lives of his fellow residents. Through his leadership, voluntary work, and passion for advocacy, Martin has transformed Central Mews into a vibrant and supportive community. 

Central Mews, a community with its own unique set of challenges, needed a guiding light. It grappled with issues of antisocial behaviour, economic hardship, and vacant properties. The area, with a diverse population, has more than twice the national average of residents from Black, Caribbean, or African backgrounds. It also has a significantly higher percentage of non-English-speaking households and a Muslim population three times larger than the national average. These statistics underscore the area's rich diversity and the unique hurdles its residents face, including cultural differences and language barriers. The presence of a higher number of economically inactive individuals made community engagement more crucial. 

Before Martin's involvement, the sense of community was low. Resident participation was minimal, and the local community centre—once a hub for social interaction—had been closed. This left young people without a place to gather, and there was no focal point for residents to meet with representatives from local organisations. 

Martin stepped in with a clear mission: to rebuild that lost sense of community. His efforts have been nothing short of remarkable. Through his hard work and commitment, the community centre was reopened, offering a safe, welcoming space for residents of all ages and backgrounds to come together. This has been especially valuable for young people, who now have a place to socialise and learn new skills. The centre has become a beacon of hope and unity in a diverse neighbourhood. 

Martin's leadership has been integral for Central Mews. His open-hearted and fair approach has made him the go-to person for those facing community issues. He ensures that these issues are brought to the attention of decision-makers, always advocating for the best outcomes for the community. His leadership has driven the improved living conditions and revitalised spirit of Central Mews, inspiring others to follow his lead. 

Beyond his local efforts, Martin's contributions extend across the wider Tees Valley area. As part of Thirteen's Involved Customer scheme, Martin provides critical feedback on how policies and procedures affect customers at the ground level. His insights help shape critical decisions, ensuring customer voices are front and centre in everything Thirteen does. 

Not only that, but Martin has also been instrumental in setting up the Youth Involvement Group at Thirteen, giving young residents a platform to influence the services that impact their lives. This has empowered the younger generation to have a say in the decisions that affect their futures. 

He has attended national events, including the National Tenant Engagement Conference in London, where he shared his experiences and inspired others nationwide. His work to improve community engagement has been recognised as best practice, proving Martin's role as a true ambassador for positive social change.  

If you would like to get involved as a Thirteen customer, just as Martin has, please visit here for information on how to get involved