Our incredible Bradeley Village residents have been recognised in Parliament for their outstanding community spirit.
At the heart of the community are Val and Wendy, whose dedication has recently earned special recognition in Parliament. Since moving to the village, the pair have volunteered behind the bar, run activities such as bingo and helped organise events throughout the year, including the popular summer fayre and Christmas celebrations.
However, Val and Wendy are the first to say that Bradeley Village’s success is a true team effort. Residents regularly share their time, talents and generosity to create activities, support their neighbours and make village life special.
Bringing the community together
For Val and Wendy, the events they help organise are about much more than entertainment. They give residents opportunities to spend time together, build friendships and enjoy being part of a thriving community.
“We organise things, but it’s the wider village and all the great people who live here who truly make a difference,” Wendy explained.
“Whether it’s donating or giving their time, it all goes such a long way.
“Events are a vital lifeline. We want to bring people out of their apartments so they can celebrate, talk and spend time together. We have so many supporters in the village who help us do what we do.”
Raising thousands for important causes
Supported by their neighbours, Val and Wendy have also raised thousands of pounds for causes close to the community’s heart.
Previous fundraising efforts generated more than £1,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
Most recently, residents rallied behind a local sight-loss charity after hearing it was at risk of closing. Together, they raised more than £1,000 and invited the charity to village events, where its stall generated over £600 in additional donations.
“When we heard the charity might have to close, we knew we had to do something,” Wendy said. “We know people who rely on the service and see it as a lifeline.
“We’re both caring people and simply want to help create a community where everyone can thrive.”
Celebrated in Parliament
Local MP David Williams recently recognised the residents’ remarkable contribution in Parliament, celebrating their fundraising and commitment to one another.
To mark the occasion, the MP joined Val, Wendy and their neighbours for a special event at Bradeley Village. During the celebration, Val and Wendy were presented with a copy of the official parliamentary transcript featuring their recognition, alongside a signed letter thanking them for everything they do.
MP David said: “My team and I have been proud to support the community at Bradeley Village. I come from a working family and I’m proud to be a Potter, so I understand the importance of people coming together and supporting one another.
“I wanted to use my time in Parliament to thank everyone at Bradeley Village for everything they do as a community, including the fantastic amount they have raised for such important causes.”
Wendy added: “Val and I were blown away by the recognition in Parliament. It’s lovely for the whole village to be appreciated and for what we’re achieving together to be recognised on such a big scale.”
(Pictured: copy of official Parliamentary transcript and thank you note from MP David Williams)
The people who make Bradeley special
Betty has lived at Bradeley Village for more than 14 years and runs its thrift shop. Having spent over 30 years working as a pottery painter, she believes the village shares the same strong community spirit traditionally found across the Potteries.
“It’s the people here who make Bradeley what it is,” she said. “We have a caring community that goes above and beyond for one another every day.”
Sheila moved to the village 12 years ago to be closer to her family. Her husband helped establish the pool and darts leagues, which he continues to enjoy.
She said: “It means everything to live in a community where people care so much. Val and Wendy are the backbone of this place, they’re good people with the biggest hearts.”
June and Kenneth have lived at Bradeley Village for over a year and love the wide range of activities available. Kenneth now volunteers as one of the village’s bingo callers.
“There’s something happening nearly every night, and that’s thanks to the amazing volunteers who help make it possible,” he said. “It’s wonderful to see everyone coming together to create such a strong community.”
(Pictured: residents Kenneith and June)
Jan and Mick have called the village home for four years, with Mick volunteering to care for its communal gardens.
Jan added: “People give their time so everyone can enjoy a brilliant community and a great place to live. From artists performing at weekends and activities during the week to the shop on site, there’s so much to enjoy.”
Staffs Housing is incredibly proud of the community that residents have built at Bradeley Village. We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Val, Wendy and every resident who shares their time and skills, supports village activities, raises money for important causes and looks out for their neighbours.
Together, you make Bradeley Village a vibrant community where people can build friendships, feel supported and thrive.
Find out more about Bradeley Village here: www.staffshousing.org.uk/bradeleyvillage
