In the wake of the 2024 Hull riots, government funding was released to support projects that could help neighbourhoods recover, reconnect and rebuild trust. One of those initiatives is the Riot Recovery Project, now taking shape across Spring Bank and Stepney.
For the Stepney part of the project, the work has been supported by the Stepney High Street Accelerator (HSA) Partnership, funded through an award of government investment. The capital phase of the programme is now complete, delivering major improvements to Sculcoates Park and adding new planters to bring more greenery into the high street.
But the heart of the project lies in its revenue funded work - designed to tackle the deeper behavioural and social challenges identified by local residents. Rather than focusing solely on physical improvements, the team has been finding creative ways to bring people together, strengthen relationships and support long term change.
Over recent months, Project Lead, William Vinegrad and the team have met with residents, youth groups, faith leaders and community organisations, creating spaces for honest conversations about identity, safety and hope. Workshops across both neighbourhoods have encouraged people to share experiences and co‑design ideas for future public artworks.
The murals planned for Spring Bank and Stepney will be the visible outcome of this work - but the real impact is happening long before any paint touches a wall. People who might never have met are now talking, collaborating and imagining what the future could look like together.
The Riot Recovery Project shows how funding, community leadership and creative practice can help neighbourhoods move forward - not just by improving places, but by strengthening the connections between the people who call them home.
To find out more about the project, follow The Riot Recovery Project on Instagram here.