VCS Emergencies Partnership Network Meeting Focuses on Social Cohesion

The latest VCS Emergencies Partnership (VCSEP) Network Meeting, held on 5 March 2026, focused on the important theme of social cohesion and the role that voluntary, community and public sector organisations play in strengthening communities across the UK.

Social cohesion is about creating communities where people feel connected, respected and able to work together despite differences in background, culture or beliefs. In the current climate of social, economic and political change, strengthening community relationships and building trust has become increasingly important.

During the meeting, partners discussed a range of national initiatives, research and guidance designed to help organisations support inclusive, resilient and connected communities.

Key Resources and Initiatives

A number of useful resources were shared during the session to help organisations understand and promote social cohesion:

Jo Cox Foundation
The Jo Cox Foundation continues to champion stronger communities through initiatives such as The Great Get Together, which encourages people across the UK to come together in their neighbourhoods to celebrate shared values and community spirit.
https://www.jocoxfoundation.org

Local Government Association – Social Cohesion Guidance
The Local Government Association has produced guidance through its “Common Ground: Building Cohesive Communities” programme. This resource explores practical approaches local authorities and partners can take to strengthen cohesion and build trust between communities.

• Common ground: Building cohesive communities | Local Government Association
• Common ground: Building cohesive communities | Local Government Association
• English devolution and the transfer of police and crime powers | Local Government Association
• English devolution and the transfer of police and crime powers | Local Government Association

Belong Network Research
The Belong Network shared insights from its report “The State of Us: Community Strength and Cohesion in the UK”, which examines the factors that influence how connected communities feel and highlights opportunities to improve inclusion and belonging.
https://www.belongnetwork.co.uk/resources/the-state-of-us-community-strength-and-cohesion-in-the-uk/

Local Government Outcomes Framework
The framework outlines priority outcomes and potential metrics that local authorities and partners can use to measure progress in areas such as community resilience, cohesion and wellbeing.

• Local Government Outcomes Framework – Priority outcomes and draft metrics

Pride in Place Programme
Government resources were also highlighted relating to the Pride in Place Programme, which aims to support communities to improve local environments, strengthen civic pride and increase opportunities for local participation. The programme includes funding opportunities and guidance on place-based approaches to community development.

Pride in Place – GOV.UK

• Pride in Place Strategy
• Pride in Place Programme prospectus
• Pride in Place Programme: Phase 1 place selection methodology note
• Pride in Place Programme: Phase 2 place selection methodology note
• Pride in Place Programme: FAQ
• Pride in Place Impact Fund
• Pride in Place Impact Fund: place selection methodology note
• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pride-in-place-programme-prospectus/pride-in-place-programme-funding-profiles-and-timelines

Anti-Racism Strategies Across the UK

The discussion also touched on national approaches to tackling racism. While England does not currently have a dedicated national anti-racism strategy, examples from other UK nations were highlighted:

• Scotland’s Anti-Racism Strategy progress review:- https://www.gov.scot/publications/anti-racism-scotland-progress-review-2023/
• Wales’ Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan:- Anti-racist Wales Action Plan: 2024 update [HTML] | GOV.WALES

These strategies provide insight into policy approaches designed to address inequality, promote inclusion and strengthen community relationships.

Supporting Stronger Communities

The VCSEP network meeting highlighted the important role that voluntary and community organisations play in building cohesive communities. Through collaboration, community engagement and inclusive initiatives, the sector continues to help bring people together, reduce divisions and create stronger, more resilient places.

Organisations are encouraged to explore the resources shared during the meeting and consider how they can contribute to strengthening community connections, inclusion and social cohesion in their local areas.