Agents Rather than Patients

Case studies have shown that the most socially sustainable communities are those that focus on what they have, rather than what they lack or need. This consultation identifies how an asset-based approach to community development can be encouraged and supported.

This report includes an Agenda for Action that sets out clearly the action to be taken if the potential of asset-based community development is to be realised. Detailed recommendations cover four broad areas of action:

• Raising awareness and understanding of the asset-based approach to community development.
• Reducing the barriers that currently exist to implementing the approach and moving it into mainstream activity.
• Identifying the institutional change that needs to take place.
• Suggesting action that can be taken by communities in partnership with local groups and intermediary organisations.