How people feel about living in Parkwood, Hempstead and Wigmore
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In summary
People living in Parkwood, Hempstead and Wigmore care deeply about their community. They value the convenience, the friendliness, and the green spaces—but they also want action on anti-social behaviour, local development, and access to health and community services. Their voices highlight the real and everyday ways that neighbourhoods shape wellbeing.
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What we heard
Residents shared a wide mix of positive and negative experiences about living in the area. Most people appreciate the strong sense of community, access to local shops, and the convenience of having essential services nearby. Green spaces, safety and good transport links were also commonly mentioned.
At the same time, many residents raised concerns about anti-social behaviour, building works, parking, traffic, and the growing pressure on health services. People also told us that there is not enough for young people to do locally, and that the area needs more consistent upkeep.
When thinking about their own health and wellbeing, half of residents immediately thought about local health services, while others focused on staying active, feeling safe, eating well and being connected to others. People shared clear ideas about what would help them live healthier lives—ranging from better GP access to more clubs and social spaces.
🌟 “What’s Working Well” – the positives that lift people up
Many residents told us their area has a genuinely positive impact on their lives. 87% said living here benefits them, with convenience (41%), community connection (46%), and local amenities (44%) topping the list.
People described how easy access to shops, medical services and transport helps reduce stress and supports independence:
“It makes life easier. I don’t drive so I can walk to the shops and park.”
“It gives you a feeling of belonging… you’re not completely isolated.”
Feeling safe, having quiet areas to unwind, and enjoying nearby green spaces also boosted residents’ emotional and mental wellbeing.
Why these positives matter
Strong communities, safe neighbourhoods and easy access to essential services are known to reduce stress, support better mental health and encourage physical activity—all key building blocks of a healthier life.
⚠️ “What’s Holding People Back” – concerns affecting daily life
Alongside the positives, 87% of residents said their area also has a negative impact on them. The most common issues were anti-social behaviour (28%), building works (24%), parking (22%), traffic (22%), and pressures on health services (20%).
Residents described feeling stressed, unsafe or frustrated when navigating these challenges:
“Everything is stressful.”
“If I’m on my own, I feel intimidated.”
Many said these issues disrupt sleep, make daily travel harder, or reduce how often they go out.
Why these negatives matter
Environmental stressors such as noise, anti-social behaviour, poor road conditions and limited services can harm both physical and mental health. If people feel unsafe, disconnected or inconvenienced, they are less likely to be active, social, and in control of their wellbeing.
💡 “What Needs to Change” – what residents want to see
Residents shared practical, realistic ideas to improve health and wellbeing locally. The most common were:
- Improve health services (33%) – especially better GP access, more capacity at Medway Hospital, and community-based care.
- Create more community spaces and clubs (19%) – especially for teenagers and older residents.
- Enhance the upkeep of the area (9%) – including cleaner streets, regular weeding and better pavements.
- More amenities and variety of shops (7%) – fewer takeaways, more healthy food options.
- Better transport and safer travel – more reliable buses, safer cycle routes, reduced traffic.
Residents also called for stronger local policing, improved youth provision and more social spaces that bring people together:
“The youth club needs an overhaul—somewhere teenagers feel welcome and safe.”
“Improve the local area—litter pick, grass cutting, weeding.”
Why these changes matter
These improvements would help people stay active, stay connected, feel safe, and maintain good mental and physical health. They also strengthen community resilience and create environments where healthy choices are easier to make.
