The Big Society Social Action Public Service Reform

The coalition marriage *Something old, Something new, Something borrowed, Something blue?* * Concept originated by Urban Forum

‘old' Devolution and Empowerment Localism - more powers at the local level Democratic renewal - strengthening democratic roles Public involvement in services Recognition of deprived neighbourhoods

‘new' Scale of ambition – a radical agenda Relationship between the citizen and a smaller smarter state The individual citizen is of top significance, then communities, then local authorities Accountability to responsible citizens The right to bid for a service The responsive state – not welfare or top down

‘borrowed’ Ideas from other countries eg USA (community organisers) Sweden (free schools model) ……. and from previous governments and programmes

‘blue’ ( with a yellow hue?) Conservative ‘one nation’ politics Liberty – a free and open society

5 key pillars Give communities more powers Encourage people to take an active role in their communities Transfer power from central to local government Support co-ops, mutuals, charities and social enterprises Publish government data

Coming soon to a community near you…… Community Organisers National Citizen Service Big Society Bank Big Society Day Community First grants programme Big Society De-regulation Task Force