New Local published The Community Paradigm back in 2019 – the world has changed monumentally since then, but the imperative to shift power to communities hasn't. During the pandemic, mutual aid proved how communities could mobilise in response, often faster than formal services. Now in our ‘anti-establishment' era of declining trust in institutions, empowering communities can catalyse a renewed relationship between citizen and state.
Practical routes to achieving this offer a glimpse of a different, possible future. The neighbourhood, representing tangible daily reality for people, is increasingly recognised as a crucial convening tier by both local and national government. Spaces and social infrastructure that enable everyday connection as an antidote to online isolation and toxicity. Identities rooted in place, fostering shared pride that can bridge other divides. Hyperlocal governance that can open out meaningful decision-making when designed deliberately.
Because postcodes remain a strong determinant of life chances, organising and integrating services at neighbourhood level is urgent work. Especially when it comes to the complex, context-dependent work of prevention. Working closely not just in, but with communities focuses support on people's aspirations, guided by their voice, not just their needs, determined by their deficits.
Crucially, a renewed relationship between communities and the local state is reciprocal and supportive, not zero-sum. Some regard the ceding of any power to communities as a threat to the dominant municipal state that was a feature of the last century. Others view communities in isolation from the democratic process – councils as just an awkward hurdle to overcome.
Yet the challenges of our times are significant – beyond the ability of any single institution or solution to resolve alone. Rebuilding trust and forging local resilience requires collaboration across local systems, skilled frontline practitioners and actively participating communities – with everyone playing a part.
Jessica Studdert is chief executive of New Local
