A Kurdish community group is making a positive impact in Newcastle by volunteering to clean up the city as a gesture of gratitude for the warm welcome they have received. Led by Sabir Khalid, the number of volunteers has steadily increased over the past several months, focusing on litter-picking efforts in the West End.
Background of the Initiative
Sabir Khalid, who has lived in Newcastle for over 25 years, has long sought to create positive change within the community. Inspired by a similar group of Kurdish people in Leeds, he approached Newcastle City Council with a proposal to help keep the streets clean. The council supported the idea, and the group, known as Kurdish House, began its activities.
Growth and Community Support
Over the last three months, Kurdish House has grown significantly, now boasting nearly 100 members. Volunteers meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to conduct litter-picking sessions. The initiative has received an overwhelmingly positive reaction from the local community, which Sabir deeply appreciates.
Sabir commented: "I have always been involved in encouraging the community to give back. When we visited Leeds and saw their efforts, I thought, 'Why can't we do the same?' I contacted the council, and they were fully supportive. Now we operate independently on Tuesdays, and council staff join us on Wednesdays."
He added: "We started with just 16 people in Elswick and West Road, then grew to 24, then 30. Through social media, we now have 97 members in our WhatsApp group, all eager to help keep our beloved area looking its best. The reaction has been fantastic, confirming we made the right decision. People are even taking time off work to participate, showing the difference we are making."
Beyond Litter-Picking
Sabir envisions the group as more than just a cleaning initiative. He aims to support vulnerable and isolated individuals in society, fostering a sense of togetherness and positive use of time.
He explained: "We have asylum seekers who are isolated and living alone, away from their families, who have joined us and felt much happier. Women who feel lonely at home during the day also come to be part of the community. I hope the group continues to grow, potentially reaching 150 members in the next month. If we can contribute to making this wonderful city even better, that is exactly what we will do."
For updates on the group's work to keep Newcastle clean and tidy, visit the Kurdish House Facebook group.
