University of Lancashire
Connected Communities: Rebalancing Power Through Community-Led Research
Finalist, Benefitting Society
About
Communities in West Cumbria have long faced geographic, economic and social isolation alongside high deprivation. Interactions with institutions have often been characterised by short-term, one-sided engagement that has failed to address issues of trust and participation. The Connected Communities programme, led by Dr Suzanne Wilson, has transformed relationships between communities and institutions through a pioneering, community-centred participatory approach. Since 2017, the work has empowered residents as community researchers to identify local issues, analyse data and influence decisions. It has supported grassroots groups, strengthened community cohesion and helped participants progress into education or employment through new skills. Following local government reorganisation, Cumberland Council adopted practices developed through the programme, giving communities a stronger voice in decision making and regional funding. Nationally, the model has informed work in Preston and is being embedded in National Lottery Heritage Fund processes, aiming to put funding decisions in the hands of affected communities.
Top 3 learnings
- Humility was my most effective strategy when building trust with communities.
- I learnt not to assume people's preference for digital technology over face-to-face activities.
- I relinquished as much power and control as possible, the projects flourished as a result.
What it would mean to win
Winning this award would be a proud achievement for the University of Lancashire, recognising the impact of Connected Communities. Most importantly, it would celebrate the communities whose leadership, trust and contribution made this project possible.
SDG
| 2026 | |
| Benefitting Society | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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