New mural brings colour, creativity and community spirit to Parr

A striking new mural has been unveiled at Derbyshire Hill Family Centre in Parr, celebrating unity, safety, and the power of working together.

The new mural which is a vibrant artwork is part of Merseyside’s Together As One campaign, which shines a light on the people and projects making our neighbourhoods safer.

Created in collaboration with award-winning community group Powered by Hip Hop and designed under the creative direction of Kingsyze Graffiti, the mural features bold illustrations of police, firefighters, paramedics, and local residents, alongside the powerful message “Together As One.”

Young people from the area played a big part in bringing the design to life, learning graffiti-style techniques from professionals and leaving their own mark on the project.

The launch coincided with a special Services Day at the Family Centre, organised by manager Catherine Brooks. Families had the chance to meet Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service teams, take part in art workshops, try on uniforms, and get involved in outdoor games and interactive activities.

Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said the project shows what’s possible when a community works side-by-side:

“This mural is more than just art — it’s a symbol of how we can reduce serious violence by empowering people, supporting young people, and building strong partnerships. Parr is a brilliant example. This time last year, it was identified as having high levels of antisocial behaviour. Thanks to targeted work, investment in the Family Centre, and genuine collaboration, we’ve turned that around. It’s safer, stronger, and more connected.”

new mural
Together As One — Credit: Together As One

The statistics speak for themselves — incidents of antisocial behaviour in the area have dropped by more than 75% compared to last year. The area is no longer classed as a hotspot, showing the long-term impact of this approach.

The mural is just one of many creative projects Powered by Hip Hop are delivering in the area, from parkour and breakdancing to circus skills, funded through the PCC and Violence Reduction Partnership’s Youth Empowerment Scheme.

Councillor Trisha Long, St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said:

“This mural not only transforms the space at Derbyshire Hill Family Centre but also captures the respect, belonging, and mutual support that defines our community. By celebrating young talent and investing in local people, we’re building safer, more welcoming neighbourhoods.”

The Together As One campaign, launched earlier this year, showcases the work being done across Merseyside to reduce violence and create safer communities. From The Daniel Fox Foundation’s anti-knife crime education to sports and arts initiatives, the campaign brings together those committed to making a difference.