Organised and funded by our Community Partnership team and supported by the Holytown Environmental Group, the event on 27 March brought together organisations offering information and advice, including our Tackling Poverty and Tenant Participation Teams, Home Energy Scotland, Lanarkshire Carers, Police Scotland, One Parent Families Scotland and NHS Health Improvement.

"These community events are invaluable for bringing services directly to the people who need them most," said Councillor Geraldine Woods, Communities Convener. "I was delighted to see so many residents engaging with local organisations and each other. This is exactly the kind of grassroots event that strengthens our communities."

Attendees enjoyed entertainment from local music charity Reeltime Music, while our Community Partnership team distributed soup packs with recipes, light refreshments from a local supplier and healthy ready meals donated by local businesses. Remaining soup packs were donated to Airth Court Homeless unit in Motherwell, and free products were available as part of the period dignity initiative.

The event also highlighted the Holytown Environmental Group's efforts to enhance the local area and recruit volunteers.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "It was a fantastic opportunity to network and meet local residents. We had good engagement which helps to break down barriers and build public trust between Police and local communities."

Councillor Woods also thanked the staff at Keir Hardie Sports Centre and community partners Lanarkshire Community Food & Health Partnership, Three Little Maids Catering, Premier Store (Main Street, Holytown), and All Prepped up at Reilly's for their support.