Together for Change is excited to announce the launch of its insightful report on the Aspiration, Inspiration, Perspiration programme, which provides an in-depth look at the eight online events held between March and June 2024. This report captures the key discussions and ideas that emerged from these sessions, which brought together over 170 participants from across Wales, including citizens, policymakers, and practitioners, all committed to building stronger, more resilient communities.
The programme, designed in response to the ongoing challenges facing communities in Wales, focused on three key themes:
- Aspiration: Ambition in tackling challenges and pressing for change.
- Inspiration: Acquiring great ideas and knowledge of what works and can make a difference.
- Perspiration: Starting out, adapting, and keeping going in hard times.
These events featured engaging presentations, interactive workshops, and discussions led by diverse voices—community leaders, grassroots organisers, and experts from the public, private, and third sectors. Topics explored included leadership in communities, social enterprise, Asset-Based Community Development, and new economic models like the Circular Economy. The sessions aimed to equip participants with practical tools and knowledge to create lasting change in their communities.
Jessie Buchanan, CEO of Together for Change, said:
“This report is more than a reflection on the events we held—it’s a call to action. The insights and ideas generated throughout the programme demonstrate the power of collective action in Wales. From innovative economic models to community-led health initiatives, the report offers a wealth of inspiration for anyone looking to make a positive impact.”
Key Highlights
The report shines a spotlight on several important areas, including:
- Community-led action: Examples of how communities across Wales are harnessing local assets to drive meaningful change.
- Health and wellbeing: Stories of community health champions partnering with public healthcare providers to improve local outcomes.
- Economic resilience: Practical models like Community Wealth Building and Circular Economy activities that keep resources within local communities, fostering economic sustainability.
By showcasing successful examples from Wales and beyond, the report provides readers with fresh perspectives on how to build resilient, thriving communities, even in challenging times. It also delves into how Welsh culture, history, and policy can shape a distinctly Welsh approach to community development, offering practical frameworks and strategies to take forward.
What’s Next
Together for Change is committed to continuing the momentum from the Aspiration, Inspiration, Perspiration programme. Future work will focus on expanding partnerships, engaging more communities across Wales, and building on the ideas captured in the report to foster sustainable wellbeing for all.
Read the full report and learn more about the insights and recommendations:
The Resourceful Communities Partnership videos for all 8 online Aspiration, Inspiration, Perspiration events are now available on our Youtube channel via the following links:
Notes to Editors
- Together for Change is committed to promoting sustainable, community-led development across Wales.
- The Aspiration, Inspiration, Perspiration programme was developed and organised by Together for Change, with support from Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services and Social Care Wales.
- The Resourceful Communities Partnership is a national forum for public and third sector organisations working to improve wellbeing in Welsh communities.