Libby's Celebration of Stanley
I’ve discovered that there’s a lot more history in Stanley than I ever realised. What really stood out to me is how much people went through in the past. Every part of Stanley has its own story, but many of them went through the same struggles—especially during the mining days. I was shocked to learn that young kids lost their lives in the mining disaster. It’s awful to think that people my age were expected to work in such dangerous conditions. It makes me feel like we should be more grateful for the lives we have now, especially when you think about what those young people went through.
Right now, I wouldn’t say Stanley is in a great place. There isn’t much communication between people—it just feels like a boring town with not much going on. In the past, there was more connection and people worked together more. I think we could bring some of that community spirit back if we really made the effort.
I’d like there to be more things to do in Stanley, and more ways for people to connect—like cinemas, sports, or even just spaces for walks and socialising without having to rely on social media. I want to actually get out, meet people, and do things in real life
“I want to actually get out, meet people. and do things in real life.”
- Libby Herdman
Consett Heritage Project / September 13th, 2023
Anne-Louise Grant - Consett Heritage Podcast
Anne-Louise was born in Consett in 1966, and grew up in a village nearby. Her Grandad on one side was a postman and on the other side a miner. Her Dad was a metallurgist at the Steelworks and she had many family members who lived and worked in the area (and still do). She returned to Consett in 2004 to raise her family, having left to seek employment in London in 1989.
Youth Social Action / January 8th, 2025
Know Your Neighbourhood Project / January 8th, 2025
Benfieldside Community Garden / January 8th, 2025
NE Charity Awards 2025, Maya Patterson
One of our fabulous volunteers, Maya Patterson achieved the Highly Commended Award at the NE Charity Awards in September 2025, for her voluntary work with Building Self-Belief CIO. She was recognised as a Young Charity Champion of the year for her major contribution to Building Self-Belief, in particular for her support with the youth clubs and at Benfieldside Community Garden. Well done Maya, this is very well deserved!
Consett Heritage Project / March 12th, 2025
Delves Lane Primary School Poetry Anthology
The children at Delves Lane Primary School learnt about the history of the Consett Steelworks and developed their understanding of the impact that the steelworks closure had, and continues to have, on the community. They created paintings, poems and decorated a quilt. Each group chose a photo relating to the Consett Steelworks, and wrote their own poems using poetic techniques. We hope you enjoy them!