Safety is residents' top priority as major survey reveals strong local pride

Three in four residents say they’re proud to call Brent home, while 85% believe the borough is a place where people from different backgrounds get on well together, according to the latest Resident Attitudes Survey.

Living in a neighbourhood free from crime and bad behaviour remains most important to Brent residents, and antisocial behaviour like littering, street drinking and drugs was identified as their main local concern.

Earlier this year, an independent polling company gathered the views of more than 2,200 residents. The results are helping to shape the council’s priorities, with Brent's new four-year Council Plan set to be considered by Full Council in November.

The survey, which was published this week, found that community safety, health services, clean streets and housing were among residents’ top priorities for future investment.

Cost of living pressures remain a challenge for many, with around one in seven residents reporting difficulties managing financially.

Councillor Gwen Grahl, Deputy Leader of Brent Council, said: “Thank you to everyone who took the time to take part in the survey. Brent is a borough with a strong sense of community, and it is great to see that reflected in the survey responses.

“The results tell us that residents are proud to live here and recognise many of the positive changes taking place across Brent. But they also tell us clearly where we need to do more, both as a council and with partners like the Metropolitan Police and NHS.

“Residents want cleaner, safer streets, they want a good place to call home, access to good jobs, and when they’re struggling with bills they want to know that support is available. We’re listening. The views residents have shared will help shape the priorities we set for the next four years.”

The survey also asked residents for their views on council services. Three quarters (77%) are satisfied with the way the council runs services. Four in five said the council keeps them informed, while more than seven in ten believe the council listens to and acts on local concerns.

The Resident Attitudes Survey is carried out periodically to understand residents' experiences, priorities and views on local services.

Read the full findings.