Community cohesion
Community cohesion
Definition
A cohesive community is one where:
- there is a common vision and a sense of belonging for all communities;
- the diversity of people’s different backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued;
- those from different backgrounds have similar life opportunities; and
- strong and positive relationships are being developed between people from different backgrounds and circumstances in the workplace, in schools and within neighbourhoods.”
‘Guidance on community cohesion’ (LGA, Dec 2002) and ‘Community cohesion – an action guide’ (LGA, 2004).
Our vision of an integrated and cohesive community is based on three foundations:
- People from different backgrounds having similar life opportunities
- People knowing their rights and responsibilities
- People trusting one another and trusting local institutions to act fairly
And three ways of living together:
- A shared future vision and sense of belonging
- A focus on what new and existing communities have in common, alongside a recognition of the value of diversity
- Strong and positive relationships between people from different backgrounds.”
The Government’s Response to the Commission on Integration and Cohesion (CLG, Feb 2008)
Policies and legislation
- Improving Opportunity, Strengthening Society – A third progress report on the Government’s strategy for race equality and community cohesion
- Evaluating Local Authority Communication Strategies
Useful links
- Instutute of Community Cohesion (ICoCo)
- Community engagement and community cohesion – research findings by the Joseph Rowntree Organisation
- Community cohesion publications on the Communities and Local Government website
- Northern Association of Support Services for Equality & Achievement – Community Cohesion in schools
- Community Engagement and Empowerment in Scotland
- Community Cohesion and Housing: a good practice guide – Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH)
Association of Social Care Communicators 