Community capitalism: A new model to level up

“Nothing short of a fundamental rethink and refresh of our model of capitalism is needed."

Andy Haldane, ex-Chief Economist at the Bank of England, explains why increased community power is essential to tackle inequality. Find out more and watch his lecture for Local Trust.

Lifting the lid on data poverty

How did communities step up to keep people connected during lockdown? Our new research looks at the impact of data poverty on neighbourhoods across the UK and the response from local groups. The report makes a number of recommendations to civil society, government and the private sector, including the establishment of a national data bank. This idea is now being taken forward by Virgin and O2.

Opportunity for communities to take control of local assets

Does your community need funds to help secure land or a building? The government's Community Ownership Fund will enable local groups to bid for up to £250,000 funding to help them buy or take over local community assets. The first round is open until 13 August with a second round in December and a third in March 2022. Find out more.

Big Local Connects 2021: What to look forward to

From sessions with the Handmade Parade to the Youth Forum and everything in between, this year's Big Local Connects promises to be as exciting and colourful as ever. Find out more and register now.

Food builds communities

How does food bring people together? Our recent report with the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission explores this and makes recommendations for how community-led food projects can influence wider food sustainability. Hear from Adam in Westwood and Ravensthorpe on their flourishing community garden, listen to the Land Unlocked podcast on community food projects and local climate action, and explore community stories in the report for more.

Levelling up: following Biden's example

Taking a lead from the US on community-led regeneration, our chief executive, Matt Leach's blog explores what we should be learning from our friends across the pond when it comes to neighbourhood-level regeneration. 

Power in Big Local partnerships

How are decisions made in local communities? Take a look at the blog  from our researcher, Lucy, and the comic by artist, Charlotte Bailey, in which they explore power dynamics in decision making in Big Local areas and ask how do we ensure decision processes are inclusive. Read the full report for more.

How to have your say in the planning system

A series of workshops (5 August and 2 September) designed to help  communities have more of a say in the planning process.