Conne cted localism A blueprint for better public services and more powerful communities, with an introduction from Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive of the LGiU This collection of essays looks at how a localised, yet connected approach to public service innovation can help us meet complex social and political challenges. With contributions from Patrick Diamond, Anthony Zacharzewski, Sophia Parker and Richard V. Reeves. The LGiU is an award winning think-tank and local authority membership organisation. Our mission is to strengthen local democracy to put citizens in control of their own lives, communities and local services. We work with local councils and other public services providers, along with a wider network of public, private and third sector organisations. Third Floor, 251 Pentonville Road, Islington, London N1 9NG 020 7554 2800
[email protected] ISBN: 978 1 903 731 92 5 www.lgiu.org.uk June 2013 Connected localism Contents Introduction: putting the 1 local jigsaw together Jonathan Carr-West Connecting communities: 12 neighbourhood empowerment Patrick Diamond Open, networked, democratic: 30 a localist future Anthony Zacharzewski Connected localism and the 53 challenge of change Sophia Parker Localism and opportunity: 69 friends or foes? Richard V. Reeves Conclusion 87 LGiU: CONNECTED LOCALISM About the authors Jonathan Carr-West is chief executive of the LGiU, a leading think tank and membership body for local government that works to make people and communities powerful. LGiU supports local councils, communities, civil society, business and government to share knowledge and ideas and to create new thinking and innovation. Prior to being appointed as chief executive Jonathan was policy director at LGiU.