Stockport is a place powered by its people. From community champions and volunteers to local businesses, frontline workers and neighbours who go above and beyond, it's the people of Stockport who help make the borough such a great place to live, work and visit.
This summer, Stockport Council is proud to support two initiatives that celebrate exactly that: we will be sharing our special 50 Things to Do This Summer guide, helping residents and families discover activities and experiences across the borough, and supporting We Are One Stockport, shining a spotlight on the people who make Stockport stronger every day.
‘We Are One Stockport’ will share inspiring stories from across the borough throughout the year, recognising the people whose kindness, dedication and community spirit help bring communities together and make Stockport stronger.
It will feature stories from every corner of Stockport, celebrating the people who quietly make a difference every day and inspiring others to get involved in their communities.
Among the first people to be featured is Mary Dutton MBE from Brinnington, who was named Volunteer of the Year at the Stockport Rocks! Awards. Through community groups and Knit & Natter sessions, Mary has dedicated countless hours to helping local people connect and combat loneliness.
Mary said: "I know what I do makes a difference, because people tell me it does. And even if you make a difference to just one person, you're still making a difference!"
The start of the initiative will also highlight the work of Ged McLoughlin from Rainbow Roofs in Reddish, who supports LGBTQ+ residents and helps ensure everyone feels welcome and included in their community.
Ged said: "Everyone deserves to feel safe, comfortable and able to be themselves in their home. That's why I'm passionate about making sure LGBTQ+ residents are heard, supported and included."
Another featured resident is Kurt Torevell, a member of the team at Edgeley Library, helping residents access support, services and opportunities to stay connected.
He said: "Working in the library is about so much more than books. It's about helping people live well in the community.”
‘We are One Stockport’ will showcase a diverse range of people who power and contribute to life in Stockport, from faith leaders and foodbank organisers to youth workers, park volunteers, traders and community connectors.
Their stories will be shared through videos, social media, articles, billboards and partner channels throughout the year.
As part of supporting our communities further, the council has launched its 50 Things to Do This Summer guide, showcasing a wide range of events, activities and experiences taking place across the borough.
From community celebrations and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, the guide encourages residents to explore what Stockport has to offer, support local venues and businesses, and create lasting memories with friends and family throughout the summer holidays.
Cllr Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, said:
"One of Stockport's greatest strengths is its people. Across our communities there are individuals who give their time, support others and help make this borough such a welcoming, vibrant and successful place to live.
"This summer we're proud to support both the 50 Things to Do This Summer guide and We Are One Stockport's spotlight on the people that power Stockport. Together, they showcase the very best of Stockport, from the fantastic places, experiences and opportunities on offer across the borough to the people whose everyday actions make our communities stronger.
"I hope these stories encourage people to discover something new, get involved in their community and take pride in everything that makes Stockport such a special place to live, work and visit."
Residents will be invited to nominate people who power Stockport throughout the We Are One Stockport spotlight, helping ensure even more stories of kindness, dedication and local pride are recognised and celebrated across the borough.