Community Matters is the nationwide federation for community associations and similar organisations, with over 1,000 member organisations across the UK. Originally established as the National Federation of Community Associations in 1945, Community Matters has played a key role in promoting and supporting action by ordinary people in response to social, educational and recreational needs in their neighbourhoods and communities.
Currently Community Matters' members include:
- over 900 community associations and similar multi-purpose community organisations;
- Over 30 Local Federations of Community Organisations and over 100 other local supporting organisations;
- over 150 local authorities and housing associations
Community Matters' has a vision for active and sustainable communities in which everyone is valued and can play their full part. They pursue this vision by supporting and developing the capacity of community organisations and representing their interests at a national level.
Their work is underpinned by a number of principles and beliefs:
- In the importance of “community”, in a world where so many people are isolated and marginalised.
- That racial, religious and social diversity (or difference) adds value to our society, and that everyone has the right to equality of opportunity.
- That democratic community organisations help to empower individuals and contribute towards a cohesive and vibrant society.
- In the value of voluntary activity: including formal and informal volunteering, mutual organisations and self help groups.
- In the distinctiveness of the community sector as a part of the wider voluntary and community sector.
- The value of community development as a process which gives confidence and skills to people to exercise greater power in their everyday lives
For more information visit www.communitymatters.org.uk or alternatively call 020 7837 7887
