A Different Approach
The Elusive Magic of Sustainable Change
Across Britain, a huge amount of emphasis and energy are placed on the economic regeneration of disadvantaged areas. Often this takes the form of large-scale regeneration initiatives that do not fully meet local needs or aspirations, or indeed address the underlying causes of economic disadvantage. As a result, sustainable change, that is one that supports positive local economic, social and environmental outcomes in these communities remains elusive.
In many places, local energy and creativity becomes trapped, and different parts of the economy - local businesses, voluntary sector agencies, and the public sector - do not talk to each other to maximise local opportunities.
For the local economy to undergo durable and robust change, the capability and energy of everybody needs to be harnessed. The magic of Local Alchemy lies in its ability to harness the key ingredients of successful transformation.
A Different Approach
Our starting point is the energy for changing the local economy within a community, and the natural resourcefulness, skills and passions of local people. The principle behind Local Alchemy is that people who live and work in a place, and others who care about its future, are best positioned to find solutions, implement them and reap the rewards.
We believe that promoting and supporting local enterprise should be part of any strategy for economic regeneration. Local enterprises are more likely to employ local people, provide services to improve the local quality of life, spend money locally and so circulate wealth in the community, promote community cohesion and, by reducing transportation of goods from across communities, are likely to have a smaller environmental footprint.
But we are also, and more fundamentally, seeking to support enterprising behaviour within communities, typified by a solution-focused attitude, and a 'can do' approach.
The Local Alchemy process and content is built around supporting community-based action towards developing a more sustainable local economy. This we describe as having:
- Diverse range of businesses and enterprises in terms of size, social & private mix, and diversity of goods and services produced.
- Positive local money and resource flows
(a high local multiplier and local re-use of waste).
Download the Money Trail (PDF 1862 KB)
- Strong local asset base including local people's attitudes, skills and knowledge; physical, financial and natural resources.
- Responsive public and business sector which is working to strengthen and invest in the local economy.
- Strong community & civic voice including local activism, leadership, volunteering, and engagement in debate.
- Sustainability and a reduced environmental footprint.
- Increased understanding of economic, cultural and ecological inter-connections that link communities, span the globe and impact on the future.