Our policy positions set out what we think on the key topics central to our work. They are informed by our values, our research, and almost forty years of working with communities.

Our research and reports aim to share the learning from our programmes and the work we do in local communities, providing insight for practitioners and policy-makers who share our goals.

Many of our reports come directly from the learning generated by our projects and programmes. We also commission and carry out original research to add to the evidence base both for our work and to share with policy makers in a position to change things for the better.

We use policy and research to support our three core aims:

  • Improving people’s prospects
  • Creating better places
  • Promoting greener living and working

You can view our latest reports and policy positions below or view all of our reports by topic.


  • Report cover image: a young boy is entertained by a street performer blowing bubbles

    Regeneration and a green recovery

    This report looks at the role town centres play in regenerating urban areas and helping communities towards a green recovery. It explores ways that town centres can contribute to our social and environmental wellbeing in the future through: connecting people with nature; community hubs; cultural spaces; sustainability centres; and high street communities. Published May 2021.…

    Read report

  • Picture of a woman and children in a park with flowers in foreground

    Out of Bounds

    Natural spaces in our towns and cities have lots of benefits: for our mental and physical health, for communities and for the local economy. However, not everyone has equal access to these benefits. This report looks at the evidence on equity in access to urban nature and how we can address it. Published May 2021.…

    Read report

  • Two men gardening, photographed from across a raised bed with plants in foreground

    Community Groups in a Crisis

    The Covid-19 pandemic impacted on every section of society. This research looks at the experiences of grassroots community groups during 2020, how they responded to support their communities, and how they can be empowered to continue playing a key role in their neighbourhoods through the next phase of the crisis and recovery. Published November 2021.…

    Read report


View by topic

Green jobs

To create a more sustainable future and improve prospects for everyone, all jobs should be green jobs.

Climate and nature

Community action on tackling the climate and nature emergencies.

Health and wellbeing

Supporting good health in our communities.

Communities in control

How and why we should be putting communities in control of their future.

Supporting young people

Reports on youth participation, youth work and young people’s education and employment.