In this policy spotlight, Natasha Meldrum explores how investing in social capital can strengthen inclusion, rebuild trust, and foster belonging across neighbourhoods. The blog highlights how social infrastructure and equal access to opportunity can help communities reweave their social fabric and create lasting change
Search
research Local economies
Policy spotlight 3: How investing in social capital builds cohesive communities
The final paper in our policy spotlight series summarises the evidence on social capital and its contribution to community cohesion.
News Oct 2025
From launch to legacy: celebrating 15 Years of Big Local impact
With the Big Local programme nearing its close in March 2026, we’re turning our attention to the achievements, impact…
blog Oct 2025
The road to the Community Wealth Fund: reflections one month on
The government’s announcement in September 2025 that the Community Wealth Fund will be targeted at doubly disadvantaged neighbourhoods marks…
research Community spirit
Bridging the divide: the hidden power of social capital to drive social mobility
This paper examines the relationship between social capital and social mobility in the UK through the lens of place.
blog Oct 2025
Power and leadership
Party conferences 2025: the highlights reel
As the political party conference season draws to a close for another year, Policy and Parliamentary Manager Tilly Steward looks back at Local Trust’s visits to Bournemouth, Liverpool and Manchester and shares three key takeaways from across our activities and engagement.
research Power and leadership
Mission Critical 04: A new relationship between people and the state
This report proposes a new framework for rethinking the relationship between people and the state, which brings together outcomes, power and participation.
blog Oct 2025
Community spirit
Devolving powers: why neighbourhoods hold the key to government success
A new report from the Future Governance Forum and Local Trust outlines how devolving power to neighbourhoods can unlock national renewal. It calls for community-led investment, participatory policymaking, and support for the UK’s most disadvantaged areas.
News Sep 2025
Local economies
Power and leadership
Government confirms Community Wealth Fund will support England’s doubly disadvantaged neighbourhoods
England’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods will receive vital investment in social infrastructure through the Community Wealth Fund.