Get localism here – the West Country shows the way
The South West Participatory Budgeting regional network has produced a regional guide to localism, featuring different tools and approaches taken across the region with lots of case studies
PB in Exeter
West Country enthusiasts rose to the challenge of making sense of the jargon surrounding the ‘Big Society’ and ‘Localism’ by publishing a guide based on their own experiences of local people being encouraged and involved in the decisions that affect their communities.
Recognising that residents in towns, neighbourhoods, and villages across the region are the real experts in what public services should look like, a group of 29 professionals who have been working together for over two years have put together a free 52 page booklet, Localism in Action.
Localism in Action is packed with case studies, tools, and tips drawn from real-life examples from Cornwall to Gloucestershire. They include how to create successful community shops, housing planning, recreation grounds, and attractive neighbourhoods.
Leslie Silverlock, a PBU Associate, who led the team producing it, said:
“Enthusiasts have travelled long West Country journeys to refine ways from their experiences of improving public services. Treasurers will find community economic sense in this booklet, elected members how to be even more democratic, and residents how localism can equal a better deal”.
Jamie Buckley, East Devon District Council's Engagement and Funding Officer, who contributed to the guide, added:
"It's been a really exciting project. I've learnt that the South West really is leading the way. I hope that Localism in Action will pass some of that learning on"
The free, illustrated, on-line booklet is aimed at councillors, parishes, and public service officers who want to cut bureaucracy, create local ownership of facilities, set up community budgets, involve young people, organise a participatory budgeting event, and find hidden sources of money. Links to other sources of information, and contact details for all the contributors, are also included.
“It’s a truly remarkable piece of work by public authority staff”, said Dominic Murphy, Executive Director of Creating Excellence, which formed and supports the group, “these are people who really are enthusiastic for local people to have more of a say, and for their authorities to respond.”
The guide can be downloaded by clicking here or by visiting Creating Excellence's website here. If you would like printed copies please contact John Scrine at Creating Excellence at john.skrine@creatingexcellence.org.uk. They are available in bundles of 10 priced at £50 a bundle.
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