Lancashire Residents Choose Pride Over Pay in New Civic Pride Push

Reform Lancashire Passionate About Civic Pride and Proud of Our County

A new Civic Pride initiative is shining a light on residents across Lancashire who are choosing pride over pay by giving their time, care and energy to improve the places they call home.

From litter picking and planting flowers to supporting neighbours and protecting local heritage, people across the county are stepping up not for financial reward, but because they care deeply about their communities.

Pride Over Pay

‍Residents say they get involved for many reasons: to feel a sense of belonging, to improve their neighbourhoods, to build friendships and to leave a better place for the next generation. Many say the emotional and social rewards far outweigh money.

One resident explained:

“Taking pride in the area you live in, whether it’s litter picking, weeding footpaths, helping a vulnerable person, or keeping your garden tidy. Not everyone advertises what they do, but those who do inspire others.”

Communities Leading the Way

‍Groups such as Civic Pride Rossendale, where more than 80 volunteers regularly clean, plant and enhance public spaces, show what can be achieved when communities take ownership of their environment.

Civic pride also means supporting long-standing local groups that bring people together. Examples include the Skelmersdale Prize Band, which has served its community for more than 150 years, and the Tanhouse Morris Dancers, active for over 50 years.

Another resident said:

“Civic pride isn’t just about keeping places clean and tidy. It’s about taking an active interest in your community, supporting local events and groups, and valuing what makes your town special.”

Building Pride in Place

‍The initiative will sit within Lancashire County Council’s new Place Directorate, which is developing a renewed focus on Pride in Place, community and societal cohesion, and many of the elements outlined in the motion. Work is at an early stage to bring together a wider strategy and action plan.

Momentum is already building, with planning underway for the Annual Pride of Lancashire Awards 2026, which will celebrate community champions, volunteers, businesses and heritage groups from across the county. The Civic Pride initiative will be formally presented to Cabinet in early 2026.

‍Reform Councillor Ella Worthington said:

“This is about people choosing to care and choosing to act. Civic pride shows that ordinary people, doing small things together, can transform their communities.”

“I am passionate about Civic Pride across Lancashire; however, it must not come at a cost to the taxpayer. We need to look at it differently and come up with sensible solutions.”

^‍Council members and stakeholders will use a plan–do–review approach, helping communities act, assess results and build on success. Updates will be shared widely to support collaboration and ensure goals remain aligned.