The Fields Estate
In 2021, the High Trees Community Action team began door knocking on The Fields estate on Upper Tulse Hill. They found a number of friendly, engaged residents with some common concerns and shared hopes for their community. More than 50 residents have contributed their perspectives to a listening report which summarises many of the challenges facing residents.
Between 2021-23 High Trees Community Action Team supported a group of community leaders to meet regularly to discuss improvements to the estate. We supported the group to think through the practical steps they could take to secure change. This has included organising door knocking campaigns and petitions to build their base.
During this process it emerged that there were quite significant challenges created by the fact that this relatively small estate was managed by two housing associations, with residents from one side benefiting from better maintenance and an active TRA, while the other lacked representation and support.
To address this imbalance, the group decided to establish two TRAs—ensuring residents from both housing associations had a platform. In June 2024, the new TRA held its inaugural meeting and was formally recognised by their housing association shortly after.
This recognition enabled the group to successfully apply for the Tulse Hill Health and Wellbeing Grant. With the funding, they launched a series of community-building activities aimed at fostering trust, respect, and stronger relationships among neighbours. One highlight was a community fun day in November 2024, which also marked the conclusion of High Trees’ direct support.
Since then, the group has continued to plan and deliver positive activities using their remaining funding—building on the momentum they’ve created and continuing to strengthen their community from within.