The Institute for Voluntary Action Research (IVAR) looked back at over 200 pieces of literature on place-based approaches over the past 50 years for Lankelly Chase, as they considered what role they could and should play as a national foundation in supporting localities to change the systems that perpetuate severe and multiple disadvantage.
Published last week, we believe the research findings will be of use to all those working in foundation or government roles who are thinking about approaches that are nationally driven but locally delivered.
Unsurprisingly, we found that place-based approaches are wide-ranging in their rationale, aims and delivery methods. However, there are a number of common themes that appear to be at the heart of successful place-based working. What follows is a summary of eight issues that need to be explored, reviewed and reflected upon at regular intervals as work progresses: