Communities that are strong and inclusive lead to a better quality of life, a stronger sense of identity and belonging, and mutual respect and equality. This is central to the idea of a civil society on which democracy rests.
More information on the national picture
A cohesive community is one where:
- there is a common vision and a sense of belonging for everyone
- the diversity of people's different backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued
- those from different backgrounds have similar life opportunities
- strong and positive relationships are developed between people from different backgrounds in the workplace, in schools and within neighbourhoods
Community cohesion is about reducing the likelihood of community tensions and is linked to race issues, but not exclusively. Other barriers to community cohesion in the South East are formed through different cultures, lifestyles and beliefs. These might affect groups such as asylum seekers, refugees, travelling communities, young people and faith communities.
Promoting community cohesion involves removing barriers and encouraging positive interaction between groups. It aims to build communities where people feel confident that they belong and are comfortable mixing and interacting with others.
What are we doing in the South East?
The Government Office for the South East has been given the regional responsibility by the Home Office to:
- support Local Authorities and other agencies in promoting community cohesion
- gather good regional information in issues affecting Community cohesion in the South East
- ensure South East agencies learn about good practice from each other and from the Home Office National Pathfinder Programme
This work involves the following:
- South East Community Cohesion Network
- Community Cohesion Conferences
- Fostering Dialogue Programme
- Slough Shadow Pathfinder work
