CONNECT2 - Why Community Engagement Matters

The Community Landscape

93% of people identify themselves as a member of a local community.

It is fundamental to human nature to exist within communities; in fact most people belong to several. Their community involvement may relate to where they live, what they do for a living, where their family originates from, how they spend their leisure time or many other factors. These communities exist in the real world. Social media are just one expression of their presence and importance, a means to stay in touch on a regular basis.

But the important communities share a vital characteristic – they matter hugely to their members. The community is where they meet, talk, exchange views, compare stories about their worlds, and make their own contributions to society.

Hover over the panels to find out more…

Changing roles of communities

CONNECT2’s programmes are built on a deep understanding of the structures, ambitions and needs of consumer communities around the UK. We analyse how our clients can help to achieve the aims of communities and their members whilst meeting their own objectives.

Changing landscape

Over the past ten years, local government discretionary spending on local projects has seen a radical decrease across the UK. Central government spending over the same period on community projects has also decreased to a significant degree.

There is a funding void in efforts to improve local amenities and environmental projects. Increasingly, communities are having to step up to the plate, be proactive and think more inventively to get things done themselves.

Shifting mindsets

Communities across the country are taking it upon themselves to make essential improvements in their area – everything from environmental to infrastructure changes.

They look for resources from new places, including the private sector. These resources might be financial, but also include skills and knowledge. Opportunities for partnerships between business and communities are coming to the fore.

Businesses and communities in partnership

Communities are best placed to establish their own individual needs. Their members are less interested in ‘one-size fits all’ solutions, often offered by government or big business.

In return for some help and sympathetic treatment, they can also offer untapped contact opportunities to talk to community members. They use digital media, print and above all word-of-mouth, and with the right programme behind them, corporate reputation can be enhanced and corporate purpose demonstrated ‘in action’ directly with stakeholders.