| “…the evidence presented in our case studies questions and challenges the effectiveness of neighbourhood structures in achieving the ‘civic’ objectives associated with the Big Society.” “Devolution to and within local authorities (i.e to local rather than central authorities) does not necessarily result in, and can thwart, community activism and empowerment (giving power to local communities rather than local authorities).” “Nevertheless, there were also examples within the case studies of neighbourhood initiatives which had successfully promoted community involvement.” “’Invited’ spaces are structures and vehicles for neighbourhood working created by the states whereas ‘popular’ spaces are created outside of conventional political systems and structures. It follows that ‘invited’ spaces may be less effective in delivering ‘civic’ objectives as they are driven ‘top down’ whereas popular spaces are developed by citizens ‘bottom up’.” “Some level of independence and autonomy from any one public sector agency/service provider is required to best deliver the civic rationale.” “The proliferation of small community groups running public services can enable consumer choice an holistic localised delivery…their proliferation can work against formal democratic accountability and the ability of elected organisations to respond to community concerns.” “…civic engagement can be (and perhaps must be) facilitated and provided by ongoing support by local governmental structures if it is to thrive.” “The Big Society is posed as a liberating alternative to big government, while in fact in some circumstances promoting the Big Society may require an expansion of local government support structures.” “Some communities are more ready for Big Society versions of neighbourhood working than others. Some will not ever have the resources or capacity to sustain community – run activities and services, and, on the strength of the evidence above, can significantly benefit from investment in capacity-building or catalytic structures such as neighbourhood forums, partnerships, or management organisations, be they an arm of the state or an independent civic body, such as a development trust.” “There is an urgent need to work out what kind of structures are needed to support greater civic participation, and where the money is going to come from.” “Perhaps the most important conclusion to be drawn from the case studies is that local government needs to acknowledge that there is no one harmonious or single solution to the multiple objectives of renewed local democracy, civic empowerment, and better and more efficient public services.” | 