A cohesive community is one that is in a state of well-being, harmony and stability. To support local councils in facilitating community cohesion, through listening to communities, engaging residents and assisting interaction between communities, the IDeA has published this practical approach to community cohesion work with young people. This community toolkit has been drawn up with Blackburn and Darwen Borough Council and Unison.It deals with the ‘blind spot’ consultation work – examining project methodology and giving hints and advice for consulting with young people. The toolkit recognises that there are no quick fix solutions to strengthening community cohesion. Instead it focuses on sustainable, long-term goals such as promoting citizenship, a common understanding of the future and engaging young people in democracy. It contains a DVD, with footage of the outcomes of the project and supporting documentation.

The toolkit is available from: mailto:craig.titterton@idea.gov.uk