Concluding Statement

Although we are proud of our achievements and the impact we have on individuals, families and the communities with which we work, we are acutely aware that the challenges we all face will not disappear for a while yet.

While the demand for our services increases daily the resources needed to respond to this growing need are shrinking. Government at all levels has to respond and do so quickly. How this response is delivered is really important. Local, community based organizations have shown how quickly, flexibly and inclusively they can, and do respond, to demanding local and individual needs. Just look at how effective their response to the COVID emergency has been.

Our concluding message to decision makers is simple; accelerate the Localism agenda and support local, community based organizations to respond to the needs of local people at a local level, and do it now.