Building Bridges: Bringing local authorities and independent funders into dialogue

Civil society is composed of highly varied but distinct elements, which work together towards a common outcome: improving people’s lives. For this reason, a healthy civil society has always been critical to resilient communities. However, as cuts to local government budgets have altered local landscapes of service delivery – with many places now characterised by growing need and shrinking provision – the importance of civil society to securing the wellbeing of communities has dramatically increased.

Building Bridges makes the case that both independent funders and local authorities must see their role as enablers, based on a common language and common understanding of local needs and opportunities. The report reveals some barriers to collaboration which must be overcome. Among them is a lack of a shared sense of purpose. Poor understanding of respective strengths, capabilities and operating contexts. And, to some extent, organisational egoism and a reluctance to take a step back and put civil society in the driving seat.

Today, as resources available decline and the amount of need grows, this must change. Supported by the City Bridge Trust, and written by New Local, our aim with this report is to encourage and fuel the conversations and debates needed within local government and civil society to ensure better, more cohesive and collaborative action.

Visit New Local to read the full report