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localtrust.org.uk
Local Trust
@localtrust.org.uk
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Supporting people to do brilliant things in their communities #BigLocal #CreativeCivicChange Secretariat for the Community Wealth Fund - bsky.app/profile/commwealthfund.bsky.social
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localtrust.org.uk
Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · Nov 18
We’re happy to be on Bluesky! Find out what makes the #BigLocal funding programme so unique – and sign up for regular updates from us – at localtrust.org.uk/big-local/ab...
About Big Local
Through Big Local, 150 areas across England were enabled to create lasting change in their neighbourhoods over 10 to...
localtrust.org.uk
localtrust.org.uk
In 2010, Par Bay Big Local was established to support three Cornish villages that were facing tough challenges: the decline of local industry, high unemployment, and weakened community connections.

Today, their story is one of transformation and pride.

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Image of Sonia Clyne, Chair of Par Bay Big Local, smiling while gardening. Quote on image reads: 'There's so much happening here now and a real feeling of optimism, community and looking after each other.' Logo of National Lottery Community Fund in the corner.
November 14, 2025 at 11:30 AM
localtrust.org.uk
Strengthening social capital isn’t just good for society – it’s smart economics.

This year, we released our Social Capital 2025 series with @demos-uk.bsky.social and 3ni, which explored one of the most important factors in explaining economic growth & health in societies: social capital.

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November 13, 2025 at 11:20 AM
localtrust.org.uk
Social capital is back on the policy agenda 🎯

The Government’s emerging neighbourhoods policy provides an opportunity to rebuild social capital, particularly in areas where community activity and local infrastructure are most lacking.

But what will it take to turn ideas into action?

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Green graphic with the Local Trust logo, and dark text that reads, “Three key recommendations for policymakers to strengthen community connectedness.” At the bottom right is the National Lottery Community Fund logo, featuring a hand with crossed fingers icon and the text “COMMUNITY FUND.” A right-pointing arrow appears in the lower left corner. Green graphic with the Local Trust logo and dark text that reads: “1. Provide long-term investment in community-led social infrastructure. 2. Develop consistent neighbourhood governance structures. 3. Provide opportunities for young people.” The National Lottery Community Fund logo with a hand and crossed fingers icon and the text “COMMUNITY FUND” appears in the bottom right corner.
November 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM
localtrust.org.uk
“I’ve developed as a person, a community leader—something I never envisioned myself being.”
For 15 years, Big Local has been transforming communities & empowering residents to lead change in the places they live. In our latest film, residents & partners share how this has shaped who they are today.👇
November 10, 2025 at 10:31 AM
localtrust.org.uk
Last month, the UK Government launched its new Pride in Place strategy - a £5 billion plan supporting 330+ communities with historic new powers for local people to shape where they live.

It’s an ambitious vision - but what will it take to turn ambition into impact?

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November 7, 2025 at 3:16 PM
Reposted by Local Trust
c4research.bsky.social
On Wednesday, we hosted the All Together Now conference in collaboration with our friends at @localtrust.org.uk and @theyoungfdn.bsky.social . the day was full of insightful conversations and important connections! ✨

#alltogethernow #communityconnectedness #c4
A Q&A panel event at the conference.
November 7, 2025 at 1:46 PM
localtrust.org.uk
✨ It was great to hear so many inspiring voices at the All Together Now Conference on Wednesday!
Local Trust’s Tash Meldrum & Millie Dessent led a session on building connected communities, with Taz Virdee from Heston West Big Local sharing how they’ve brought people together. 💚
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A person is seated on a chair indoors, leaning slightly forward with hands clasped while speaking. They are wearing a black head covering, a black coat over a white shirt, light gray pants, and black lace-up boots. A group of people sit at wooden tables in a conference or classroom setting, appearing focused and attentive. In the foreground, one person types on a tablet while another looks toward the front with a laptop open beside a coffee cup. Several others in the background listen, take notes, or rest their heads on their hands. Most attendees wear name badges on purple lanyards.
November 7, 2025 at 10:21 AM
localtrust.org.uk
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Toynbee Hall for the All Together Now conference! It was inspiring to be part of conversations around community connection from so many perspectives.

We’ll be reflecting on what we’ve learned and sharing highlights from the day soon, so stay tuned.
Image of speakers participating in a panel session at the C4 conference. Image of people in the audience at C4 conference Image of Local Trust CEO Rachel Rowney giving a speech at C4 Conference Image of two people chatting at C4 conference
November 5, 2025 at 3:46 PM
localtrust.org.uk
What does it really take to build stronger, more connected communities? We’re answering this question today at the All Together Now conference🚀
The conference marks the introduction of @c4research.bsky.social & will explore how to strengthen social infrastructure that helps communities thrive.
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November 5, 2025 at 9:00 AM
localtrust.org.uk
💡“Investment at the neighbourhood level creates the foundation of local social capital, which in turn supports the growth of community connectedness.”
Building social capital & investing in areas where community activity is most lacking creates the spaces & networks that facilitate cohesion.
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November 4, 2025 at 2:15 PM
localtrust.org.uk
📢 "Cohesion policy should unlock the community-based organisations that offer connection, a shared identity & a broader focus on community life"
Our latest policy spotlight outlines how social capital builds more connected communities & must be rooted in the future of cohesion policy: bit.ly/4qI3Iic
A green square graphic with dark green text that reads, “Three ways to support the development of social capital.” In the top left corner, white text says “Local Trust trusting local people.” In the bottom right corner is the National Lottery Community Fund logo. A right-pointing arrow appears to the left of the main text. A green square graphic with dark green and white text. At the top left, it says “Local Trust trusting local people.” Below, three bolded headings with explanations read: “Social infrastructure – the spaces, places and connections in communities.” “Collective efficacy – the shared belief that communities can work together to achieve change.” “Equitable access to opportunities – equal access to opportunities and services - like housing, employment, education and healthcare.” The National Lottery Community Fund logo appears in the bottom right corner. A green square graphic with dark green and white text. At the top left, it says “Local Trust trusting local people.” The main text reads: “To learn more, read our new report: Policy spotlight 3: How investing in social capital builds cohesive communities.” Below is a dark green rounded rectangle containing the web address “localtrust.org.uk/policy-spotlight-3.” The National Lottery Community Fund logo appears in the bottom right corner.
November 4, 2025 at 1:22 PM
localtrust.org.uk
To the northeast of Wolverhampton sit two distinct estates - the Scotlands and Bushbury Hill. Divided by a road, as well as a period of history and mistrust, they’re now finding common ground thanks to the remarkable pink ladies - volunteers at the Big Venture Centre. [1/2]
November 3, 2025 at 3:51 PM
localtrust.org.uk
For 15 years, residents in Big Local areas have worked together to create lasting change.

Now, with less than six months to go before the programme comes to an end, we’re sharing the stories, reflections and achievements of the people who made it all happen.

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October 31, 2025 at 11:26 AM
localtrust.org.uk
Our paper ‘Bridging the divide’, released with 3ni, explores how strengthening social capital at the neighbourhood level can boost social mobility.

But what are the different types of social capital ,and how do they connect to social mobility? https://bit.ly/3JxBXrX
Graphic explaining the concept of social capital. The image includes three key points: "Bonding social capital" refers to relationships among family and friends; "Bridging social capital" links people from diverse social backgrounds; "Linking social capital" connects communities with institutions and authorities. The image is branded with the logo for the National Network for Neighborhood Improvement at the top right. Infographic explaining the difference between formal and informal social capital, presented by Local Trust and 3ni. Describes formal social capital as structured, participational involvements in associations, institutions, or civic organizations, and informal social capital as organic, evolving through everyday interactions with friends, family, and colleagues. Infographic explaining types of social capital. "Structural social capital refers to activities that create mutual support and involvement in community networks." "Cognitive social capital is more personal, reflecting a network's shared values, support and trust activities in times of need." Logos for Local Trust and National Network for Neighborhood Improvement are present. Infographic explaining two types of social capital. Individual social capital is described as networks and support from personal relationships. Community-wide social capital refers to networks that enhance shared challenges and promote cohesion. The image includes logos for Local Trust and 3ni.
October 30, 2025 at 11:30 AM
localtrust.org.uk
We each belong to a community, but why do some thrive while others struggle?

Next week, we’re exploring these questions at the All Together Now conference with @c4research.bsky.social and @theyoungfdn.bsky.social. [1/2]
Logo and text for “All Together Now: The Centre for Collaboration in Community Connectedness,” introduced by Local Trust, The Young Foundation, and the Economic and Social Research Council (UKRI).
October 29, 2025 at 3:06 PM
localtrust.org.uk
Get ready for the Locality Convention - the biggest community sector event of the year!
We’re pleased to share that C-Change West London (the legacy organisation of Heston West Big Local) has been shortlisted for the ‘Transforming Lives Award,’ to be announced at the convention.
Get your tickets 👇
locality.org.uk Locality @locality.org.uk · 25d
⏱️ The countdown is on to get your tickets for #Locality25 Convention! Join us at Anfield Stadium as we kick off an amazing celebration of the #PowerOfCommunity.

📅 12 and 13 November 2025
📍 Liverpool FC, Anfield Stadium
🎟️Tickets: locality.org.uk/events/local...
October 28, 2025 at 11:12 AM
localtrust.org.uk
It’s been one month since the Community Wealth Fund announcement🎉
The government’s decision to target England’s most doubly disadvantaged neighbourhoods marks a major milestone for the Community Wealth Fund Alliance (CWFA), for which Local Trust has served as a founding member and secretariat. [1/2]
Image featuring Roshni Mistry, Senior Policy and Parliamentary Officer at Local Trust, smiling in front of a foliage backdrop. Beside is a green panel with text 'The road to the Community Wealth Fund: reflections one month on' and logos of Local Trust and National Lottery Community Fund.
October 27, 2025 at 3:17 PM
localtrust.org.uk
Is your community ready for climate change? 🌍 Last week, the UK’s Climate Change Committee warned that Britain must urgently prepare for global warming of at least 2°C above pre-industrial levels by 2050.

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Banner titled 'Practical Hope: Inspiration for community action' with an illustration of a green, sustainable house under a sun and clouds. Below is text 'Community guide to retrofit - What communities can do to share more sustainable energy, develop area-based projects, and use more sustainable practices', with the logo of TCPA at the bottom right. Illustration showing a house and a tree under rain clouds, partially submerged in water, representing flood risk. The image includes text titled "Practical Hope: Inspiration for community action" and a subtitle "Community guide to flood risk". The logo of TCPA is visible at the bottom right. Graphic titled 'Practical Hope: Inspiration for community action' featuring an illustration of a house and sun, promoting a community guide to preventing overheating and making homes cooler, with the TCPA logo at the bottom right.
October 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM
localtrust.org.uk
"Creating better places is about so much more than physical buildings"
In our latest article, our CEO Rachel Rowney explores how social capital is the foundation for lasting change, and why true renewal depends on strong partnerships between government and civil society.
🔗 bit.ly/3IYNYqp
Partnership and collaboration to grow social capital and create better places
When I visit communities across the country, I’m often reminded that creating better places is about so much more than physical buildings or infrastructure. Regeneration works best where there is alre...
bit.ly
October 23, 2025 at 11:12 AM
localtrust.org.uk
🤝 How do our communities shape the outcomes of our lives? Our latest paper, ‘Bridging the Divide: The Hidden Power of Social Capital to Drive Social Mobility’, examines the role of social capital in supporting social mobility across the UK.

🔗 bit.ly/3WO79pR

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A poster featuring the Local Trust and the National Network for Neighbourhood Improvement (3ni) logos. The poster reads: “Social capital and social mobility are intrinsically linked.” Below, the title says “Bridging the divide: The hidden power of social capital to drive social mobility.” It notes the date “October 2025” and includes the Community Fund logo at the bottom right. The background features an image of people at an outdoor community event with tents and buildings. The color scheme blends shades of green and blue.
October 22, 2025 at 9:00 AM
localtrust.org.uk
When people feel powerless, they start looking for answers elsewhere.

We're pleased to share @right-here.org's new film that argues that the solution to ‘Broken Britain’ can be found in every neighbourhood across the country - watch how.
🔗Read the story behind the film: bit.ly/4nl0sGS
October 21, 2025 at 2:19 PM
localtrust.org.uk
In the 1980s, Thurnscoe faced high unemployment and challenges in health, education, and community cohesion after the local mine closed.

In 2010, Big Local funding helped the village begin its transformation.
Derek Bramham, long-term chair, reflects on their regeneration: https://bit.ly/46YDUqu
An image from Local Trust and Big Local. On the left, a quote reads: “I know that there are even brighter things to come for our village.” — Derek Bramham, Chair, Thurnscoe Big Local. On the right, a smiling man wearing a high-visibility vest cuts a ribbon in front of bright green outdoor gym equipment. The Community Fund logo appears in the bottom right corner.
October 20, 2025 at 3:48 PM
localtrust.org.uk
That’s a wrap on the 2025 party conference season! 🎉

It’s been an eventful few weeks for us, with activities and engagements at party conferences across the country. In our latest blog, Tilly Steward, our policy and parliamentary manager, shares three key takeaways: http://bit.ly/42LqU4X
Image for Party Conferences 2025: the highlights reel blog featuring Tilly Steward, Policy and Parliamentary Manager at Local Trust, smiling at the camera. The background is green and includes the Local Trust and Community Fund logos.
October 17, 2025 at 11:30 AM
localtrust.org.uk
Our Bigger Story is a multimedia evaluation of Big Local.

In this report, ‘Understanding success in Big Local’, researchers evaluated the performance of 15 Big Local areas against four outcomes.

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Graphic by Local Trust titled “Four outcomes to measure success in Big Local.” The image features a green background with the Local Trust logo and slogan “trusting local people.” In the center is a report cover titled “Understanding success in Big Local: Our Bigger Story – The longitudinal multimedia evaluation of the Big Local programme” (July 2024) by Sheffield Hallam University’s Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research and Bayes Business School. The cover includes circular icons representing collaboration, community, communication, and connection. At the bottom right is the National Lottery Community Fund logo. Green graphic by Local Trust with the logo and slogan “trusting local people.” The image lists four outcomes to measure success in Big Local: Communities are better able to identify local needs and take action. People have increased skills and confidence to respond to future challenges. Communities are making a difference to the priorities that matter most to them. Each area has become a better place to live. At the bottom right is the National Lottery Community Fund logo.
October 16, 2025 at 10:30 AM
localtrust.org.uk
Last week, @futuregovforum.bsky.social published ‘Mission Critical 04’ in partnership with Local Trust, exploring how government can deliver on its missions by resetting its relationship with people, starting at the neighbourhood level.

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Figure 1 shows a circular diagram titled “Our framework for effectively delivering missions at a neighbourhood level.” It illustrates a mutually reinforcing cycle of three stages: Neighbourhood outcomes — results aligned to local priorities and needs. Neighbourhood power — communities gain the ability to influence and act on local decisions. Citizen participation — residents engage actively in shaping their neighbourhoods. Arrows connect the three stages in a continuous loop: neighbourhood outcomes lead to neighbourhood power, which leads to citizen participation, which in turn strengthens neighbourhood outcomes — showing how local engagement, empowerment, and outcomes reinforce one another. The Local Trust and Future Governance Forum logos are visible at the top. igure 2 shows a circular diagram titled “A vicious cycle of outcomes set with little regard to neighbourhood needs, creating little need for neighbourhoods to have power, and so limited desire to participate in democratic processes.” The cycle includes three main stages connected by arrows: A) Outcomes set nationally, with little regard to neighbourhood needs. Supporting text: “Neighbourhoods do not need decision-making powers as their role is to implement policy decided nationally.” The Local Trust and Future Governance Forum logos are visible at the top. B) Neighbourhoods have limited power but also limited capacity to wield it. Supporting text: “Efforts to increase participation are viewed as tokenistic since they are not linked to powers to make change happen.” C) People are cynical about participating in democratic processes. Supporting text: “Disconnection between nationally-set outcomes and neighbourhood-level need feeds cynicism about politics.” Arrows link each stage in a continuous loop, illustrating how national-level decision-making, limited local power, and citizen cynicism reinforce one another in a negative cycle. Figure 3 shows a circular diagram titled “A proposal for a virtuous cycle of outcomes aligned to neighbourhood priorities, neighbourhoods with power, and greater participation.” The cycle has three main stages connected by arrows: A) Neighbourhoods are at the heart of government efforts to improve outcomes. Supporting text: “Neighbourhoods can meaningfully play a role in policy-making if they actually have the powers to enact policy.” B) Neighbourhoods can effectively wield power, enabled by an ecosystem of support. Supporting text: “Participation is more meaningful if attached to power to make change happen.” C) People participate more in democratic processes. Supporting text: “Citizen participation ensures that neighbourhood priorities are well understood, so that policy-making is more responsive to actual needs.” Arrows connect each stage in a continuous loop, illustrating how empowered neighbourhoods, meaningful participation, and responsive policy-making reinforce one another in a positive cycle. The Local Trust and Future Governance Forum logos are visible at the top.
October 15, 2025 at 10:30 AM