This is something that I looked at in my own research on the role of community centres in local life – as spaces that bring communities together and enable them to connect across lines of difference – so I am really interested to see how the conversation develops.

Along similar lines, this blog from the @bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk looks at the role social and cultural infrastructure could play in combatting populism and reversing the erosion of social cohesion.

www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/blog/social-...

Grateful to my wonderful @wearenewlocal.bsky.social team and to the speakers and partners who made the event possible – looking forward to continuing the conversation.

@evefrancisholt.bsky.social & Tabz O’Brien shared insights from GM's place-based approach to prevention.

A core part of the Live Well movement is a network of welcoming centres offering integrated financial, employment, well-being, health & social support – and a chance to build social connection.

In a panel on building community cohesion, it was great to hear that unlocking physical spaces is a core part of both Calderdale & Lichfield’s approach.

💬 “The power we have as local authorities is to facilitate that kind of magic to happen, this is where our power as place shapers can bear out.”

In 3ni’s session on building social capital, we heard about the Portland Inn Project – a community-embedded arts organisation in Stoke-on-Trent working alongside local people to develop pioneering community spaces – from a disused pub to a repurposed shipping container.

The need for spaces where communities can gather – which build the bonds that connect us to place and to the people around us – emerged as a strong theme throughout the day.

Thanks so much! It was a brilliant project to work on - they are such special places ☺️

Thanks very much for sharing!

Our recent recent research shows just how important third spaces are.

Areas where there are no places to meet face poorer social and economic outcomes, including higher rates of ill health and child poverty.

You can read more about our findings here: www.newlocal.org.uk/publications...

We make a similar point in Where People Meet – that a vibrant & cared for community centre can make a place feel invested in, where people feel like their voice matters & have the opportunity to participate in conversations around issues that impact their lives.

www.newlocal.org.uk/publications...

Jennifer notes that “Even modest action — a reopened community centre or repaired playground, a place to meet — can spark belief that the future might be better than the past.”

To counter the political damage from ill health, ‪@jenniferthf.bsky.social‬ argues that “Putting local people in charge, giving them the resources and authority to make visible changes — things that restore pride and confidence — will make a difference.”