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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 23/09/2026

Local Trust may be closing, but community-led work continues. Explore stories and learning from 150 communities on Learning from Big Local, and take what’s useful into your own work: bit.ly/3Tpy7WK (1/2)

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 14/09/2026

We’re excited to launch the visual for the Big Local Theory of Change: bit.ly/3UFJ6vP It’s a useful resource for anyone working with communities at a neighbourhood level, bringing together learning from more than a decade of resident-led change. Chloe Juliette shares more 👇

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 09/09/2026

As Local Trust approaches its planned closure, we'll be closing our Bluesky account in early October. We’ll continue to share updates, learning & reflections from Big Local on LinkedIn until the end of the year - follow us: bit.ly/4r2ybbl Learn more about our closure: bit.ly/4gJJj9P

A lively audience seated at tables during an indoor event, featuring colorful decorative flags. Many are applauding.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 29/07/2026

📍In Podsmead, Gloucester,The Blackbridge Charitable Community Benefit Society shows what community-led health looks like in practice. Their work fills gaps that statutory services can't always meet, including a community pharmacy and a community and sports hub to improve local health and wellbeing.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 22/07/2026

In Brereton Village, Staffordshire, Vysions is a community group that helps bridge the gap between residents and local health services through activities like providing transport to medical appointments, running craft sessions, youth groups and holiday activities. [1/2]

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 15/07/2026

We're working with six former Big Local areas, in partnership with the @nhsconfed.org and @innovationunit.bsky.social, to test community-led approaches to health and help communities build stronger partnerships with statutory health services, including the NHS. One of these areas is Ewanrigg. 1/2

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What happens when communities lead on neighbourhood health improvement?

Watch case study videos from community organisations in three neighbourhoods across England who are leading on health improvement in their area.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 22/06/2026

Take what we’ve learned. Build what comes next. For 15 years, Big Local showed what’s possible when communities are trusted with time, resources and decision-making power. As Big Local ends and Local Trust prepares to close in 2027, the opportunity is to carry those lessons forward. [1/2]

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 19/06/2026

How can politicians support resident-led initiatives? With renewed interest in hyperlocal policy, there’s an opportunity to rethink how power is shared with communities. Our blog explores practical ways elected representatives, both local & national, can support community-led change: bit.ly/4a71na7

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 17/06/2026

We're pleased to support @bettertransport.bsky.social in celebrating #BetterTransportWeek again this year! This year’s focus on connecting people and places echoes what we've learned through Big Local: better transport helps communities thrive. Learn more and get involved 👇

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 02/06/2026

How can we build genuine relationships between universities and their communities? In ‘Progress happens at the speed of trust’, researchers Al Mathers and Bryony Vince-Myers speak with four university-community partnerships working to build long-term, locally rooted collaboration: bit.ly/4x8dhuk

A graphic with green background. The heading reads 'What makes these partnerships work.' Underneath it says 'Trust as the foundation. Communities as partners, not beneficiaries. University as convenor, not controller. Strategic commitment from leadership.'

A graphic with a green background. The heading reads 'The challenges that remain.' Underneath it reads 'Individual goodwill isn't enough. Academic incentive structures. Equality and access. Sustainability and succession.'

A graphic with a green background. Text reads 'Read the full case studies in our report.' There is a banner image with text that reads 'Progress happens at the speed of trust'

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 26/05/2026

What changes when a trust is designed to end? In ‘A matter of time’, developed with Shared Intelligence, we explore how Local Trust’s time-limited model shaped the delivery of Big Local, including the risks, rewards and lessons for funders. Read more: bit.ly/3S2ZpkE

The image shows a person writing on a whiteboard with the headings "Benefits" and "Challenges." Text on the board includes phrases like "Building trust in the community" and "funding landscape." The image is overlaid with text: "A matter of time" and "To what extent did being a time-limited spend-out funder influence Local Trust and Big Local?" Logos for Local Trust and Shared Intelligence are present. The date "February 2026" is at the bottom.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 21/05/2026

In 2019, we commissioned OCSI to develop the Community Needs Index (CNI) for England - a measure of social infrastructure, social capital, community participation and social connectedness. Since then, it’s helped researchers, analysts and policymakers better understand community needs. [1/2]

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 06/05/2026

When we talk about our planned organisational closure, it can take time to explain why a programme coming to an end is a sign of its success. Our report with Shared Intelligence highlights how a time-limited approach can be more effective in supporting long-term change: bit.ly/4w9ZiU2

A poster featuring the image of a rocket launch with the text: "Better to spend out…? A report by Shared Intelligence for Local Trust, January 2026." Logos for Local Trust and Shared Intelligence appear at the top.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 05/05/2026

The English Devolution & Community Empowerment Bill has passed into law. It introduces the Community Right to Buy a - huge win, but funding is needed to ensure its take-up. Additionally, the Bill doesn't strengthen communities' powers over public services or investment decisions. Act now 👇

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 29/04/2026

In the April edition of the Local Trust newsletter: 🗞️ Big Local has ended - what did it achieve? 💡 What we’ve learned about neighbourhood funding 🤝 Stories of leadership and change from Manchester and Lincolnshire 🌐 Data sharing with UK Data Service Read it now: bit.ly/4tISxqO

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Big local has ended- what's next for communities?

Big Local ends: what 15 years of community-led change achieved After 15 years, the Big Local programme has officially come to a close, marking a major milestone for community-led change across England...

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 28/04/2026

With the government’s renewed focus on neighbourhoods, the learning from Big Local is increasingly relevant. In our final year, we’re working with funders & membership organisations to share what we’ve learned. Our head of programmes Meg Falck reflects on the key insights: bit.ly/48ountc

The image features a person standing with a background of a modern building interior. The text reads: "Why the lessons from Big Local are vital for designing fairer funding programmes", with the name "Meg Falck" and the title "Head of programmes, Local Trust". Logos of Local Trust, Big Local, and The National Lottery Community Fund are present.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 24/04/2026

Through Big Local, £150m was invested in 150 communities across England to support locally-led priorities. Did it deliver? The short answer: yes. Even the most cautious estimate shows benefits exceeded costs by £64m - with potential benefits up to £150m. Read more: bit.ly/4e7RwUf

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 23/04/2026

“[Big Local] put community at the centre of the programme and its legacy - as a starting point, a guiding principle, and an outcome.” In this blog, our deputy CEO Jon Fox shares insights from Big Local areas to share the recipe for lasting community-led change – read it here: bit.ly/4vIvPjW

This image features a person wearing glasses, smiling, with a background of an office setting. The text on the left reads: "What is the recipe for big, local change? Jon Fox, Deputy CEO, Local Trust." Logos for Local Trust, Big Local and the National Lottery Community Fund are also visible.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 22/04/2026

On #WorldEarthDay, listen to this episode of our Community Pride Podcast episode where host Kayla Jones explores how green spaces help build pride in place. Featuring Nina from Brinnington Big Local, plus insights on how these spaces support communities across England: bit.ly/4crV2Yk

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 21/04/2026

Big Local areas were some of the most disadvantaged in England. Their economic context was shaped by factors such as government austerity, the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. But what stands out is how residents responded - read more here: bit.ly/4e0pCcK

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 20/04/2026

What does it take to build an economy that works for communities? In our latest blog, our senior researcher Jack Loughnane shares what Big Local teaches us about building stronger local economies through examples of areas that have found creative ways to strengthen theirs: bit.ly/4tQQnF8

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 17/04/2026

A public consultation in Mossley revealed that residents wanted a community hub - so Mossley Big Local delivered. Today, their new hub hosts activities & events led by local groups across the area. At our recent celebration event, Mossley residents shared what community-led change means to them 👇

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 16/04/2026

In St Matthews, too many young people were being left out and drawn into trouble. So the partnership created a multi-use games area (MUGA): a space to play, connect and belong At our recent celebration event, we spoke to Lee Nicholls and Imran Dedat about the difference it’s made👇

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 15/04/2026

Sam Delaney is using his journey through addiction and recovery to help others. With the support of Big Local North Cleethorpes, he founded Creative Start CIC - a community recovery & arts organisation. This #WorldArtDay, his story shows the power of creativity and community: bit.ly/3OhYZpl

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 14/04/2026

In Warsop, residents used Big Local funding to rebuild three community hubs, revive their carnival, fund local ideas, and help save their fire station. Here, partnership chair Maddie reflects on her own journey of personal growth & shares what funders can do to better support communities 👇

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 13/04/2026

What does it really take to build pride in place? Our senior policy & parliamentary manager Tilly Steward shares examples of Big Local areas that have built community prideand what others can learn from their approach: bit.ly/4svPjph

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 10/04/2026

Oldham Big Local brought together three neighbouring, divided communities through building social infrastructure and resident-led change. We spoke to Amjid & Naeem from the partnership about the legacy of the Big Local programme, & how it has helped empower their community.👇 🔗 bit.ly/4mo6ffN

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 09/04/2026

In Whitleigh, residents came together to transform their area - from a mobile community van to improved parks and a wellbeing art group, creating spaces to connect. Becky, chair of the Whitleigh Big Local partnership, shares her journey and what others can learn from it. Watch below 👇

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 08/04/2026

Clare Standish is the chief officer of Our Sale West CIO - their Big Local's legacy organisation. Here, Clare shares what they’ve achieved, the legacy they're building, & how the experience has shaped her. She also sets out four lessons for community organisations doing similar work: bit.ly/4dAC8zs

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 07/04/2026

“It’s very easy to have lots and lots of ideas...but the real challenge is making them sustainable in the short, medium & long term." 🎥Laurie from Noel Park Big Local reflects on how resident-led action helped transform their area & shares his advice for communities working to create lasting change.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 03/04/2026

What is community pride & why does it matter? In this Community Pride Podcast episode, Kayla Jones travels to Barrowcliff Big Local to see how community pride is built. She also explores what makes Big Local different, & why resident-led decision-making creates lasting change: bit.ly/41tKrpH

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 02/04/2026

“What I’ve learned is that community power rarely starts with a sweeping change.” Dr Kayla Jones has been speaking with residents across Big Local areas for our Community Pride Podcast. In this blog, she shares what those conversations reveal about how community-led change: bit.ly/4sMwKhn

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 01/04/2026

4,916 residents involved🤝 200 community assets created🏘️ 123 legacy organisations established🌿 This is just a glimpse of what Big Local residents have achieved over the past 15 years. Last week, we celebrated these achievements at the ‘We Are Big Local’ event - take a look👇 🔗 bit.ly/4m0lV8O

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 30/03/2026

“Big Local was always only meant to last 15 years. But the work it started will continue across the country.” Since 2012, our CEO Rachel Rowney has seen how Big Local supported 150 communities to lead change on their own terms. Here, she reflects on its achievements & legacy: bit.ly/4tgCvUq

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 30/03/2026

Celebrating Big Local – the movement communities made 🎉 For 15 years, 150 communities across England led change in their areas. As the programme closes, we’re celebrating the people, stories, and legacy of what’s possible with time, trust, and resources. Explore it all here: bit.ly/4m4GqS2

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 26/03/2026

Social Prescribing Day might not be the most celebrated event of the year, but it matters. Our strategic partnerships manager Ruby Frankland highlights how social prescribing supports our strained health service, & why community-led organisations are best placed to deliver it: bit.ly/4rUIRYw

The image features an individual on the right with shoulder-length hair, standing outdoors in an urban setting. On the left, there is a green panel with text that reads "Social Prescribing Day: strengthening health through community," along with a mention of Ruby Frankland, strategic partnerships manager at Local Trust. Logos for Local Trust, Big Local, and The National Lottery Community Fund are visible.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 24/03/2026

In October 2022, UK inflation reached a 40-year high. While it has since fallen, the cost of living remains far above 2021 levels. As the crisis continues, Big Local areas show what communities need to respond well. See how they responded to the cost-of-living crisis here: bit.ly/4rOTYlO

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 23/03/2026

Over the past 15 years, Big Local areas have faced multiple crises - so what helped them respond effectively? Our researchers Lisa-Marie and Ruby explore how building community capacity made a difference, and share three lessons community groups can learn from Big Local: bit.ly/4tncQcX

This image features a graphic for an article titled "Preparing for Crisis: How to Build Community Capacity" by researchers Lisa-Marie Giquel and Ruby Brooks from Local Trust. The background shows two individuals outdoors in separate photos. Logos for Local Trust, Big Local, and the National Lottery Community Fund are present.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 20/03/2026

Almost half of young people in England feel their voice doesn’t matter in national decisions. Big Local partnerships set out to showcase the positive role young people can play when they are trusted, supported & involved. Read how they involved young people in decision-making: bit.ly/3PqduY9

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 19/03/2026

What do children and young people need to thrive? In this blog, Local Trust staff members, Laura Fisher and Cameron Pannell-Rae, share how resident-led action in Big Local areas helped young people feel connected, supported and involved in shaping their local area: localtrust.org.uk/news-and-sto...

Graphic for a Local Trust and Big Local article titled 'Youth matters: what Big Local taught us about supporting young people', featuring headshots of co-authors Laura Fisher- senior researcher and Cameron Pannell-Rae - senior public affairs and communications officer.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 17/03/2026

The Museum of Community Futures shares powerful stories of local people across Greater Manchester defying the odds to achieve extraordinary change in their places. 📆 12–14, 19–21 March 📍Factory International Presented by @right-here.org & @greatermcr.bsky.social 🔗 bit.ly/4uyKSw2

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 16/03/2026

When youth services disappear, what fills the gap? Big Local began during a period of austerity. In many places, opportunities for young people were shrinking. So Big Local areas stepped in. Learn how they invested in young people – and in the future of their communities: bit.ly/3N5KODj

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 13/03/2026

Three estates. Three identities. One shared goal. Stoke North Big Local brought together three distinct estates, ensuring each was represented. Working together, residents built trust, secured £1m in funding, & delivered projects for their community. Learn how they did this: bit.ly/4uK8U7B

This image features a map highlighting Stoke North with a blue shaded area. Text on the image reads: "Working collaboratively in Stoke North. Learn how the Big Local partnership connected organizations and transformed their community." Logos for Local Trust, Big Local, and the National Lottery Community Fund are included. There is also a website link: www.learningfrombiglocal.co.uk.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 12/03/2026

Five ways resident-led groups and local government can work well together 🤝 In Big Local areas where partnerships and councils worked well together, the impact was significant - unlocking resources, influencing decisions, and delivering larger projects. Read how they did it: bit.ly/3NkydMv

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 11/03/2026

What is unitarisation, and how does it affect local democracy? The English Devolution Bill proposes replacing two-tier county–district systems with new unitary councils. @ipprnorth.bsky.social’s report, ‘Making the most of it’, explores the democratic implications of this: bit.ly/4lk6wQz

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 10/03/2026

'Below the radar' organisations are often volunteer-led and unregistered, yet they provide vital support in their communities. We’re pleased to support @360giving.org's report 'Below the Radar 2' that highlights the impact of these organisations, & explores the funding that sustains them.

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 09/03/2026

Why are equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles essential to effective collaboration? In this blog, our senior programme coordinator Natasha Almond shares examples from Big Local areas that highlight how inclusive collaboration contributed to the programme’s success: bit.ly/40Eu6hv

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 05/03/2026

Community engagement that reshaped housing plans 🏠 When Leigh Neighbours Big Local set out to understand residents’ concerns, they wanted to hear from every part of the community. They invited residents to write their ideas and suggestions directly onto a 3D model of the area. [1/2]

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 04/03/2026

💡Help shape the future of health and wellbeing in Liverpool We’re seeking an organisation or collective to manage and deliver grant funding for Liverpool Beacons, an ambitious project focusing on community-led approaches to tackling health & wellbeing inequalities. Learn more: bit.ly/409Edug

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Local Trust @localtrust.org.uk · 03/03/2026

How do we build & sustain meaningful community engagement? Big Local put power in residents’ hands, making community engagement central to decision-making. It wasn’t always easy, but areas found practical ways to make it work. Learn how on the Learning from Big Local website: bit.ly/3OGC4Ux

A group of three people stands together, smiling and conversing. One person holds a booklet. The logos of Local Trust, Big Local, and the Community Fund are visible. The image includes the text "How to meaningfully engage your community" and a website URL www.learningfrombiglocal.org.uk.

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