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The Big Society idea is a really interesting one, particularly for the voluntary sector. I think it could represent a change of direction for organisations like Groundwork and potentially provide a platform for real change.
I do have one or two caveats though. To get communities really involved in decision-making, poorer neighbourhoods will require a significant degree of support. Trusted intermediaries are crucial or we risk entrenching inequality further as the ‘sharp elbowed’ ensure they take full advantage, leaving those lacking the capacity and skills to make a contribution even further behind.
Resource will be needed to make this happen, which some of the rhetoric of the last few weeks and months fails to recognise. Yet if that resource is found and invested in ensuring the Big Society offer is universal, then we could start to see huge benefits for the community. For example, improving the local environment has been shown to be a powerful vehicle for motivating people to act together in the interests of their wider community. Could this mark the first genuine shift towards sustainable living?
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