Centre for Research in the Social Sciences

Community Cohesion (PREVENT) Pilot Evaluation

Dr Surya Monro, Dr Umar Razaq, Paul Thomas and Dr Andy Mycock

Local Government Yorkshire and Humber has funded a research project in order to explore the progress made by two case study Local Authorities (Bradford and Kirklees) regarding community cohesion, including the coordination and implementation of community cohesion related strategies, impact on neighbourhoods, and the role of strategic partners. The research took place from November 2009 – March 2010, and used a multi-method approach involving the following:

• Interviews with Local Authority and key partner policy makers, and front line staff
• Research by people working in the communities, including youth workers, housing workers, and community workers
• Analysis of Local Authority strategies

The research identified cases of good and interesting practice, as well as barriers to community cohesion. It addressed the extent to which community cohesion is embedded in the strategies and front line work of the Local Authorities and their main partners. It explored the understanding that front line workers and communities have of the work that their Local Authority and its partners are doing to build better community relations, and identified suggestions for improvement.  Outputs included a report, briefings for stakeholders, and a toolkit for use by Local authorities and their partners. Findings were disseminated at local, regional, and national events.

Contact details: Dr Surya Monro