Cars and flowers in Milton Keynes

Downhead Park service users held a car wash day on 21st June 2008. The aim of the day was to support the tenancy involvement initiative run by their landlord, Bedfordshire Pilgrims Housing Association (BPHA) and to combat the negative publicity that St Christopher's Downhead Park service had received in the past.

In addition to car washing, service users also made hanging baskets for their neighbours and local children, service users and staff had their faces painted. Service users produced a flyer inviting local residents to the event and on the day staff knocked on neighbours’ doors to remind them.

Everyone said they really enjoyed the day and BPHA staff had fun getting soaked when a hosepipe held by one of the service users 'slipped!' It was a great success and many of Downhead Park’s neighbours were able to meet with the service users in a positive light. They all said they had enjoyed the day and would join in any future events.

All together the event raised £70, as well as improving community relations in the local area. Changes (the forum run by St Christopher's residents in Milton Keynes) is currently deciding what to spend the money on.

All the staff in Milton Keynes would like to thank the service users for their hard work and enthusiasm.