Hugely successful event on Asset Based Community Development in Torbay, delivered by Cormac Russell. January 2012. Hosted by Brixham YES. Funded by NESTA (Neighbourhood Challenge) & Big Lottery.
Discovering hidden treasures thornton heath the story sofarCormac Russell
This is the story of how Thornton Heath is using ABCD to building a stronger more connected community using people power. This process was commissioned by Croydon NHS, and Croydon Local Government, they commissioned Croydon Voluntary Action and Nurture Development.
The most exciting feature of this work is the citizen-led action that is driving the process. 20 connectors (local residents) have been having hundreds of conversations with their neighbours about what they have locally and how they can use what they have to secure what they need.
Slides from 2 Day ABCD Workshop delivered by Cormac Russell and Jim Diers, Hosted byForever Manchester Foundation and supported by the Community Foundation Network. November 17,18 2011
Slides from Session 2 and 3 of the recent ABCD Guide training in Hudderfield, hosted by Kirklees Council. Session 2 was facilitated by Shaun Burnett and Session 3 by Cormac Russell.
ABCD in Action in Croydon: Asset Mapping in Thornton Heath, April 26, 27, 2011.
2 Day Workshop with Cormac Russell, ABCD Institute and Nurture Development UK
Discovering hidden treasures thornton heath the story sofarCormac Russell
This is the story of how Thornton Heath is using ABCD to building a stronger more connected community using people power. This process was commissioned by Croydon NHS, and Croydon Local Government, they commissioned Croydon Voluntary Action and Nurture Development.
The most exciting feature of this work is the citizen-led action that is driving the process. 20 connectors (local residents) have been having hundreds of conversations with their neighbours about what they have locally and how they can use what they have to secure what they need.
Slides from 2 Day ABCD Workshop delivered by Cormac Russell and Jim Diers, Hosted byForever Manchester Foundation and supported by the Community Foundation Network. November 17,18 2011
Slides from Session 2 and 3 of the recent ABCD Guide training in Hudderfield, hosted by Kirklees Council. Session 2 was facilitated by Shaun Burnett and Session 3 by Cormac Russell.
ABCD in Action in Croydon: Asset Mapping in Thornton Heath, April 26, 27, 2011.
2 Day Workshop with Cormac Russell, ABCD Institute and Nurture Development UK
Out of the Box and Off the Shelf: Bringing Person-Centred Plans To Life!LiveWorkPlay
Presentation by Alex Darling (People Connector) and Allison Moores (Support Coordinator) from LiveWorkPlay at the 2015 Learning Community for Person-Centred Practices Gathering in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada April 14-15..
OADD 2014: Person-Centred Thinking and Building Social Capital Supporting an ...LiveWorkPlay
Person-Centred Thinking and Building Social Capital Supporting an Included Life in the Community with Homes, Jobs, and Friends for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Keenan Wellar, MA and Julie Kingstone, MEd
Co-Founders & Co-Leaders, LiveWorkPlay.ca
Starting in 2008, LiveWorkPlay embarked on a journey of “de-programming” by making a shift from congregated programs to authentic community-based, person-centred, and assets-focused thinking and processes. Beyond exciting outcomes such as first homes, first jobs, and first experiences engaging in the community with other citizens, with respect to the experience of an included life, the impact is all about the development of reciprocal relationships and interdependence (social capital).
Invest In Inclusion or Invest in Exclusion: The Choice is Ours! Presentation ...LiveWorkPlay
When talking to the general public about disability and accessibility, this is often what comes to mind: they see a person in a wheelchair who cannot get through the door. These types of barriers remain of course, and I am sure right here in this city someone will go out looking for work tomorrow and experience this very same injustice. But today I want to talk about a different type of barrier, a different level of injustice: what if the very people and systems that are supposed to be supporting a person with a disability to have success in the community are deliberately investing in keeping them out of the community? What if they are discouraged from even trying to get through the door?
Address to Meals on Wheels Ottawa AGM 2015 "More Than A Meal"LiveWorkPlay
I was pleased for the opportunity to contribute to celebrating and promoting this incredible organization that delivers an incomparable and inconceivable service to the Ottawa community to the benefit of more than 250 citizens every day. The difference this makes for seniors, people with disabilities, and others who have difficulty leaving their home impacts more than just those individuals. It is better for our community as a whole when people have choices that reduce the need for institutions and allows people more time and a longer time to remain in their own homes as our neighbours and friends.
Presentation made by Cormac Russell ABCD Institute faculty memeber, and ABCD Global Consulting at University of Limerick. May 2009. visit: www.abcdglobal.ie email cormac@nurturedevelopment.ie
Newcastle on inclusion for children with disabilitiesCormac Russell
How do you build a bridge between children and young people who are labelled by their disabilities into the centre of community life? How do you build hospitable communities where such bridge building is common place? These are the questions we address in this presentation through the lens of Asset Based Community Development.
Out of the Box and Off the Shelf: Bringing Person-Centred Plans To Life!LiveWorkPlay
Presentation by Alex Darling (People Connector) and Allison Moores (Support Coordinator) from LiveWorkPlay at the 2015 Learning Community for Person-Centred Practices Gathering in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada April 14-15..
OADD 2014: Person-Centred Thinking and Building Social Capital Supporting an ...LiveWorkPlay
Person-Centred Thinking and Building Social Capital Supporting an Included Life in the Community with Homes, Jobs, and Friends for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Keenan Wellar, MA and Julie Kingstone, MEd
Co-Founders & Co-Leaders, LiveWorkPlay.ca
Starting in 2008, LiveWorkPlay embarked on a journey of “de-programming” by making a shift from congregated programs to authentic community-based, person-centred, and assets-focused thinking and processes. Beyond exciting outcomes such as first homes, first jobs, and first experiences engaging in the community with other citizens, with respect to the experience of an included life, the impact is all about the development of reciprocal relationships and interdependence (social capital).
Invest In Inclusion or Invest in Exclusion: The Choice is Ours! Presentation ...LiveWorkPlay
When talking to the general public about disability and accessibility, this is often what comes to mind: they see a person in a wheelchair who cannot get through the door. These types of barriers remain of course, and I am sure right here in this city someone will go out looking for work tomorrow and experience this very same injustice. But today I want to talk about a different type of barrier, a different level of injustice: what if the very people and systems that are supposed to be supporting a person with a disability to have success in the community are deliberately investing in keeping them out of the community? What if they are discouraged from even trying to get through the door?
Address to Meals on Wheels Ottawa AGM 2015 "More Than A Meal"LiveWorkPlay
I was pleased for the opportunity to contribute to celebrating and promoting this incredible organization that delivers an incomparable and inconceivable service to the Ottawa community to the benefit of more than 250 citizens every day. The difference this makes for seniors, people with disabilities, and others who have difficulty leaving their home impacts more than just those individuals. It is better for our community as a whole when people have choices that reduce the need for institutions and allows people more time and a longer time to remain in their own homes as our neighbours and friends.
Presentation made by Cormac Russell ABCD Institute faculty memeber, and ABCD Global Consulting at University of Limerick. May 2009. visit: www.abcdglobal.ie email cormac@nurturedevelopment.ie
Newcastle on inclusion for children with disabilitiesCormac Russell
How do you build a bridge between children and young people who are labelled by their disabilities into the centre of community life? How do you build hospitable communities where such bridge building is common place? These are the questions we address in this presentation through the lens of Asset Based Community Development.
Sharing what I have learned as a moonias working with Indigenous people on Indigenous research projects, some advice of the Do’s and Do nots, and White Privilege. What is an Indigenous Community? How do you find, and work with Elders? What is two-eyed seeing and why does OCAP matter? The platinum rule and wise, not best, practices in research. Knowing where you are and where you come from is vital to establish positive, meaningful relationships as research is all about relationships.
Kiss your assets" :An ecological approach for establishing Restorative Zones Rick Kelly
This workshops presents the evolution of a Restorative orientation within a CYC College program. The 14 years of evolving practice empathizes various student led initiatives. The Jamaica experience was one of the many presented. Currently the efforts have culminated in creating a Restorative Hub within the newly developed Social Innovation Hub.
Moonias Perspective Working in First Nations Communitiesgriehl
Chronic Disease and Wholistic Health in First Nations Communities
my view of the world as a white privileged male working with Indigenous people for more than 25 years
Service design in government, conference, edinburgh, 2019Cormac Russell
"Shifting the focus from quality of services to quality of life": An Asset-Based Community Development perspective on the challenges in service Design in Local Government. Cormac Russell, ABCD Institute
West Yorkshire & Harrogate STP, NHS England. Cormac Russell
This was delivered at a facilitated one day workshop/conversation with West Yorkshire & Harrogate STP (NHS England supported event), opened by Olivia Butterworth. The focus was on getting in 'right relationship' with communities, in an asset-based community development way. Facilitated by Cormac Russell, Nurture Development supported by Chris Chinnock, Nurture Development. Asset-based Community Development approach was used as the primary lens through which to progress the conversation and explorations. Attached is the morning presentation which was used to stimulate discussion and some searching debate.
Honest Reviews of Tim Han LMA Course Program.pptxtimhan337
Personal development courses are widely available today, with each one promising life-changing outcomes. Tim Han’s Life Mastery Achievers (LMA) Course has drawn a lot of interest. In addition to offering my frank assessment of Success Insider’s LMA Course, this piece examines the course’s effects via a variety of Tim Han LMA course reviews and Success Insider comments.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Model Attribute Check Company Auto PropertyCeline George
In Odoo, the multi-company feature allows you to manage multiple companies within a single Odoo database instance. Each company can have its own configurations while still sharing common resources such as products, customers, and suppliers.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
Acetabularia Information For Class 9 .docxvaibhavrinwa19
Acetabularia acetabulum is a single-celled green alga that in its vegetative state is morphologically differentiated into a basal rhizoid and an axially elongated stalk, which bears whorls of branching hairs. The single diploid nucleus resides in the rhizoid.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
30. Village Needs Map Food insecurity Hunger Poverty Poor infra -structure AIDS/HIV Drought Corruption Lack of basic Education Health crisis Malaria Crime Gender inequality
31. Pastoral communities in rural Kenya. Skilled people Business skills Farmers Leaders Businessmen Women Elders (traditional leaders) Entrepreneurs Activists Warriors Laibons / seers Religious Leaders Students Asset Map Turkana, Pokot & Samburu Individuals Physical Space Rangelands Pasture grazing fields – Kadengoi, Kataruk, Kasarani, Loru plains, Silale, Aroo Hills – Kalangol, Lotiruk, Loriu, Silale, morwakiring, kamarok Farms – Morulem, Lokubae, Elelea Seasonal streams Water source e.g. wells, boreholes and water pan Women groups Youth groups Development committee VICOBA Group ranches Conservancies Family Support Groups Health Advocacy and Fitness Groups PFS Youth groups Business groups Religious groups Elderly groups Community Animal health worker groups Dong’a Cultural Groups Men’s Groups Youth Mentoring Groups Mutual Support Groups Neighborhood Improvement Groups Political Organizations Recreation Groups Religious Groups Social Groups Water users Groups CAHWs vet shop groups Former livestock rustlers group assosciat Local Economy Livestock trade (small scale) Charcoal burning Sale of animal Drugs shops by CAHWS For-Profit Businesses Business Associations Village banks Micro enterprises pasture Livestock Business trade Small scale farming Sand harvesting Quarry harvesting Honey harvesting Charcoal Mining Hides and skin products Eco – tourism Small arms trade Livestock rustling Stories Of Burning of prosopys Juliflora by the women Of Ashes from trees burning acts as manure to the soil Of background and personal history Of what we like to do and contribute Of existing and ongoing skills and capacities Of successful community development Of economic growth Of addressing discrimination Of including those who are marginalized Of recognizing the value of everyone Of a time when we felt appreciated and valued Of a time the community was at its best Community Community Institutions MWUA / LWUA (food security) LOMEDS (micro credit, peace, livestock marketing) LCRC – meeting facilities Schools (primary) Nginyang, Amaya, Ngoron, Chesawach,Kokwototo, Natan ) Secondary (Chemolingot, Barpello and Churo AIC) Nginyang Polytechnic Health facilities Churches
32. Asset-based Community Development Methodology Discovering Strengths Organizing & Mapping Linking and Mobilizing Community Driven Initiatives Sustaining the Process
38. Fundamental Needs Security Autonomy Belonging Competence ? Emotional & Material Agency. Independence. Sense of efficacy in the world. Plus authenticity Community, Family & Friends, as giver & receiver Ability to sustain tasks of choosing, to contribute. Security Belonging Competence Autonomy Russell, C (2010)
39. You can’t know what you need Till you know what you have…
60. They had already knocked on doors, and heard peoples stories like Mr and Mrs Ahmed…..
61. Paul Macey who is a wonderful Community Builder, and is facilitating the process on behalf of Croydon Voluntary Action and Croydon NHS sat with Peggy and heard her story….
72. Wow! That many? What would happen if we had these conversations with everyone in Thornton Heath?
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74. Young people are leaders of today, not tomorrow, we invite them in. The message on the day: Thornton Heath needs you, we can not do this without you…
75. The art of conversation, conversations matter….
77. News flash: the streets of Thornton Heath were filled today with young people (and the young at heart) making fun…and Community
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82. End of Day Harvest Gathering the emergent themes and possibilities for action
83. Day Two: Overview Inclusion Limerick Story/Matching Grants Asset Mapping Next steps 5 6 7 8
84. A new policy anyone? People are the Answer Programmes are the Answer Develop Potential ‘ Fix People’ See People as Citizens and Co-producers See People as Clients Development Maintenance Focus on communities/neighbourhoods Focus on Individuals Emphasis on Associations High Emphasis on Agencies Fewer Services More Services Grants, Loans, Investments, Leverage Grants to Agencies Investment Orientation Charity Orientation Opportunity Identification Problem Response Focus on Assets Focus on Deficiencies Why not also have a model that… Present Policy
94. Community Asset Map-Ballinacurra Weston Individuals Gifts, Skills, Capacities, Knowledge and Traits of Youth Older Adults Artists People with Disabilities Students Parents Entrepreneurs Activists Institutions Schools Universities Community Colleges Police Departments Hospitals Libraries Social Service Agencies Non Profits Museums Fire Departments Foundations Physical Space Gardens Parks Playgrounds Parking Lots Walking Paths Forests/Forest Preserves Picnic Areas Campsites Fishing Spots Stories Of background and personal history Of what you like to do and contribute Of existing and ongoing skills and capacities Of successful community development Of economic growth Of addressing discrimination Of including those who are marginalized Of recognizing the value of everyone Of a time when you or your group felt appreciated and valued Of a time the community was at its best Local Economy For-Profit Businesses Consumer Expenditures Merchants Chamber of Commerce Business Associations Banks Foundations Institutional-Purchasing Power and Personnel Micro enterprises Local Coops Corporations and Branches Animal Care Groups Anti Crime Groups Residents Assoc Business Organizations Charitable Groups Civic Events Groups Cultural Groups Education Groups Elderly Groups Environmental Groups Family Support Groups Health Advocacy and Fitness Groups Heritage Groups Hobby and Collectors Groups Men’s Groups Mentoring Groups Mutual Support Groups Neighborhood Improvement Groups Political Organizations Recreation Groups Religious Groups Service Clubs Social Groups Union Groups Women’s Groups Youth Groups Associations My Community Our Community
95. 1. What can you do with people power? Once There is a NEIGHBOURHOOD VISION…ask
96. 2. What can you do with help from outside agencies? What would that help look like?
97. 3. What do you need outside agencies to do unilaterally?
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99. Strangers are twice more likely to assist you, than you think Studies by Flynn & Lake (2010) of Columbia University show that people underestimate how likely others are to help by as much as 100%
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102. Person Centered Work The move is from services to clients to supports for citizens Community Centered Work Inclusion
121. Classic Needs maps Racial tension/hate crimes High crime rates. Significant fear among older people High levels of ADHD Smoking related Heart disease Respiratory difficulties Obesity across The life course High levels of drug and Alcohol use. High unemployment Poor educational attainment Poor housing/environmental issues High morbidity Anti social behaviour Gender inequality
Better Engagement with parents is an ongoing question.
Thankfully, as I’ve already said, we have all we need to light the path ahead.
ABCD recognises five assets, the primary asset being the capacity of individual to give of their gifts and talents…Sometimes these are referred to as gift of the hands which relates to things you can make, gifts of the heart which speaks to the things you are passionate about, and gifts of the head pointing to the which you apply brain power or creativity to solve, resolve or create. A iron clad principle of ABCD is that everyone has gifts, without exception.
The second, the great magnifier and amplifier of citizen power is associations, groups of residents who come together to do what individuals can not. 75% of associations when asked would they be prepared to help with community building efforts said yes.
The fourth assets in many of the stories we hear about community regenerating from the inside out are of institutions that act like treasure chest instead of fortress wall, institutions of course include business, Government and NGO’s. The fifth asset is economic exchange including bartering and timebanking. Lastly the stories themselves constitute the sixth and often forgotten asset.
The third asset is physical assets, including built environment, natural environment, and physical infrastructure. Some physical assets look like liabilities at first glance, but a sharp eye will spot the hidden treasure….
Bringing programmes, services and funding is only part of the process of community building. It speaks only to the half empty part of the glass, and all too often if not balanced with community building work that helps communities to define their own internal priorities and to work on them, it builds a perverse relationship of dependency. Funding dependent communities are weak and ultimately made more vulnerable, making people dependent on funding turns them into passive recipients or clients, true regeneration does not leave dependent or dissatisfied clients in its wake, its legacy if it is to be worthwhile should be a growing body of powerful and connected citizens with a vision for the future and the support to get there.
By doing this we change the old way of working which put us in the driving seat of the transaction.
To a process of grass roots grant making and community building that puts citizens in the led. Of course we want to do this in a way that does not simply give gate keepers more power, and this is why Asset Based Community Development as a process matters so much: it shows us a clear way that everyone can be included and everyone’s voice can be heard.
Assets only become useful when they are connected in positive ways that build community power and agency for actionable change. One of the important ways of moving forward is to conduct an asset map. It is important though that it is the community that does this, since it is not a data gather exercise, so much as a relationship building process. Asset maps are not done so that outside agencies can pounce on the information, nor are then meant to sit on shelves looking pretty, they are used as vital information to help identify, connect and mobilise community abundance.
I think we take Ellerman’s ideas to an even deeper level by asking the question where in our lives do we get our needs met? There are four areas I believe where this happens, the first is within our own personal sphere of influence, where for example I can chose health seeking or health avoidant behaviour. The second in the domain of family, friends and neighbourhood, where I gain a sense of belonging, mutuality and civic participation and contribution. The third is in the domain of co-production where my personal family and community agency can join forces with professional services and supports; the aging in place agenda presents some very fine examples around the world where health care systems, families, communities and older people themselves are coproducing their own and their communities well being. Limerick example. Often if systems try to do what we personally or at a community level can do, not alone does it create unhealthy dependency but is also makes no fiscal sense whatsoever. It’s like asking a toddler to pick up a butterfly without crushing it. With the best of intentions there are things the state does well and things communities and individual do better, understand the unique function of each is key to figuring out how to have a good life and a Good Society.
Lets look more closely at this. Starting with needs. Sometimes when people present ABCD they present it as a polemic between needs and assets. To me that somewhat of a superficial interpretation. ABCD is not suggesting that we ignore needs in preference for assets, but that we take care as to how we understand needs. Most psychologists now agree that there are four fundamental needs. See slide… So ABCD begs the question how do we as helpers address for example security needs in a way that does not harm autonomy, competency and belonging. Can you think of any examples from your own life experience when someone in an honest effort to help inadvertently undermined the need for autonomy, competence or belonging of the person or community they were endeavouring to assist?
Better Engagement with parents is an ongoing question.
Thankfully, as I’ve already said, we have all we need to light the path ahead.
Better Engagement with parents is an ongoing question.
Thankfully, as I’ve already said, we have all we need to light the path ahead.
The asset based approach starts with a focus on the strengths it recognises the truth that the map is not the territory and that the glass is both half full and half empty at the same time
Society can be understood as a configuration of people in certain patterns of interdependence which continues even when some of its members die or leave. So how can society exist if the patterns of interdependence disintegrate or if new people are not constantly being welcomed? So, given that Britain currently is not doing enough of either, is British Society dying the death of a thousand cuts? Cameron being a much better communicator than me simply asks the question: ‘who’ll cut the grass, when you can’t?’
Society can be understood as a configuration of people in certain patterns of interdependence which continues even when some of its members die or leave. So how can society exist if the patterns of interdependence disintegrate or if new people are not constantly being welcomed? So, given that Britain currently is not doing enough of either, is British Society dying the death of a thousand cuts? Cameron being a much better communicator than me simply asks the question: ‘who’ll cut the grass, when you can’t?’
Society can be understood as a configuration of people in certain patterns of interdependence which continues even when some of its members die or leave. So how can society exist if the patterns of interdependence disintegrate or if new people are not constantly being welcomed? So, given that Britain currently is not doing enough of either, is British Society dying the death of a thousand cuts? Cameron being a much better communicator than me simply asks the question: ‘who’ll cut the grass, when you can’t?’
And what might strengths based thinking and ABCD have to offer???
Moving from a culture of knowledge repositories (people-to-information) to one of knowledge collaboration (people-to-people). Careful not to stereotype all local government or public sector workers! Undeniable facts: Public sector organisations are deeply hierarchical. Over-reliance on stored and categorised information. With some notable exceptions (e.g. NHS), no systematic development of peer learning and sharing techniques or strategies. Closed and private culture. But…. The past five years have seen significant changes across the local government sector. The need to meet stringent targets for performance and efficiency as part of the Comprehensive Performance Assessment, and the huge investment in technology driven by central government’s ‘e-government’ strategy (or latterly “Transformational Government”) have indeed led to improvement across the sector. However, as many councils have found, digitising assets, developing new web sites and investment in EDRM have not always delivered the improvements they were hoping for. On the contrary, the proliferation of web sites across the sector has only served to encourage a silo mentality in many authorities, making life far more difficult for staff to find, use and share information and knowledge. There is a growing realisation that, coupled with the reduction in central government funding, the tipping point has arrived, and that any further efficiency and service improvements can only be delivered by smarter working and making more effective use of shared and tacit knowledge to drive innovation.