OLDER PEOPLES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Dr Naomi Woodspring Dr Naomi

Community development is a way of strengthening civil society by prioritising the actions of communities, and their perspectives in the development of social, economic and environmental policy. It seeks the empowerment of local communities, taken to mean both geographical communities, communities of interest or identity and communities organising around specific themes or policy initiatives. It strengthens the capacity of people as active citizens through their community groups, organisations and networks; and the capacity of institutions and agencies (public, private and non-governmental) to work in dialogue with citizens to shape and determine change in their communities. It plays a crucial role in supporting active democratic life by promoting the autonomous voice of disadvantaged and vulnerable communities. It has a set of core values/social principles covering human rights, social inclusion, equality and respect for diversity; and a specific skills and knowledge base.  (Scottish Community Development Centre, accessed, 5th September 2016)

• A business that provides jobs and supports the local economy. • The capacities and abilities of community members. • A physical structure or place. For example, a school, hospital, or church. Maybe a library, recreation centre, or social club. • A business that provides jobs and supports the local economy. • Associations of citizens. For example, a Neighbourhood Watch • Local private, public, and non-profit institutions or organizations

Core Question How could the Community Development Funding be used in the most effective, strategic ways to make a real difference in the lives of older people?

Should be positioned in an asset-based approach   resources/assets within the community are identified and are at the centre of all work that is done --- rather than a deficit-based model that predicates the agency or organisation addressing the needs in any given group or community Within the asset-based model the work should come from the bottom up rather than from the organisation down to the community or group

Have an evidenced plan for collaboration and partnership with other organisations either within their geographic area or community of interest

Do Baby Boomers want lunch clubs? Recognise the changing needs of an older populations Do Baby Boomers want lunch clubs?

Articulate clear and measurable outcomes Articulate clear and measurable outcomes. Outcomes should be tied to engagement with older people in terms of creating projects that are built from the bottom up. All outcomes must demonstrate agency within the target population and where possible, self-sufficiency within the targeted older population. In other words, outcomes should demonstrate that the organisation followed the framework of asset-based community development work and that has led to agency and empowerment in the target population. Outcomes should demonstrate a shift within the community that evidences community development. Outcomes should be stated from the outset in all tenders with an opportunity to 'fine tune' or add to outcomes through the work with target population.

Pilot projects that create replicable best practices

Have a strong sustainability plan that includes building on, not just the needs of the service provider, but the community partners/assets (older people) that have been discovered or developed during the three year scope of the project.