THE team behind a successful neighbourhood scheme in Poole are on the lookout for the town's great neighbourhoods.

Nominations are being taken for groups who truly embody the spirit of communities, whether it is a group of residents, community group or business.

Last year, 150 people from across the area came together to celebrate the hundreds of thousands of hours of community activity that Poole individuals give to their town.

The “Poole Conversation” also recognised that social isolation and loneliness was a growing challenge in the town, not just in the older generations but across many other sections of our society.

Members of the community initiative included Dorset Police's assistant chief constable, the mayor of Poole and representatives from churches, voluntary groups, business and statutory sectors.

Poole Conversation works in partnership with Borough of Poole, Bournemouth University, Churches Together Poole, Faithworks Wessex, Livability Holton Lee and Prama.

Following on from the success of the scheme, the group behind Poole Conversation have come together this year to discover more about what makes different communities in the town a great place to live, showcasing ideas and inspire others to spread these across the town.

Jackie Leswell, chair of Churches Together in Poole, said: “Today we are launching a month long campaign to find great examples of neighbourly activities in Poole.

"We want to showcase ideas in three categories: a street or group of residents acting with special care and kindness, a community group or activity that transforms, unites and challenges stereotypes, and businesses that are putting something extra back into their community.”

Details about the campaign and nomination forms are available from the Civic Centre and the Spire in the high street.

Nominations can also be made online at www.pooleconversation.org.

The deadline for submissions is November 30, with a shortlist to be showcased at "Poole Conversation 2", which is due to take place at Bournemouth University on January 10.

Ian Jones, head of regional community partnerships at Bournemouth University, said: “Many of us know that Poole is a connected place where people feel valued – this Great Neighbourhoods campaign is about spotting those brilliant groups who often go unnoticed but who make people feel special.

"This time, we are not looking at individuals, but at places and teams who bring people together”