Government must put trust in community organisations, according to new report

A new report by Locality, Navigating the Storm, shows how community organisations kept going through the Covid-19 pandemic.

The report found that organisations adapted and thrived by improving efficiency, investing in their buildings and being flexible in responding to changing community needs.

Over 120 community organisations, funders and experts were interviewed for the report. The findings show how the determination and expertise of community leaders, combined with the substantial emergency support and flexibility of funding bodies and policy-makers, helped organisations make these changes.

It also highlights significant ongoing challenges for community organisations, such as uncertainty over footfall, the cost of living crisis, staff burnout and loss of volunteers. To ensure they can continue to meet the needs of their communities, Locality has set out recommendations for funders and policy-makers, which include flexible funding and greater involvement of communities in deciding on the allocation of levelling up funding.

Tony Armstrong, Chief Executive of Locality said: ‘The last two years have been traumatic and difficult for many people. Amid the loss and uncertainty, we saw people coming together across the country to support their local communities.

‘The role of local community organisations – those set up in the crisis or those already established – was critical in keeping people connected, safe and well, and in channelling this upsurge in community spirit.

‘These locally rooted organisations understand the strengths and strains in their communities – so with the vital support of government and other funders during the pandemic, they were able to make things happen fast. They achieved this amid incredibly challenging circumstances, and we should recognise their commitment and determination to support local people.

‘Every day at Locality we continue to hear about community organisations adapting services, building relationships and repurposing their assets quickly and effectively to meet local needs. And this report shows there is even more potential sitting at the heart of our communities. If the government is ready to trust these organisations, this potential is ready to be released.’

In related news, twenty-five areas across England have been awarded a share of £3m by the government to help them set their own standards for community-led local design.

Photo by Clay Banks