Building Communities, Changing Lives

For further resources on community anchors, you may wish to refer to the following publication:

Building communities, changing lives: The contribution of large, independent neighbourhood regeneration organisations Stephen Thake

Building communities, changing lives explores the contribution of independent neighbourhood-based regeneration organisations (NROs) in tackling social exclusion. Development trusts, partnership bodies, settlements, rural community councils and faith-based organisations are among those currently striving to fulfil this role. Some schools, health centres and housing agencies are also widening their remit. The study describes the varied contribution that these organisations make to tackling social exclusion. It identifies the components of what has become a mature organisational culture and distinguishes between the operational styles of doers, facilitators and hybrids. NROs also perform a role of deeper significance. Many residents of disadvantaged neighbourhoods have experienced the break-up of economic, organisational and social networks. NROs and other locally based community organisations have the potential to develop new social infrastructure in these neighbourhoods, if they can overcome the considerable difficulties they face in creating both trust and respect. The report concludes with practical recommendations to boost NROs’ ability to build vibrant, integrated communities.

You can download a free pdf of the book from the Joseph Rowntree website or order a copy online.