Leeds tops new ‘Community Spirit Index’

Wednesday, 8 May 2019 07:00

We’re living in divisive times – but Leeds residents have said their sense of community spirit is alive and well and helping rebuild fractured neighbourhoods.

The city has topped the list of a new Community Spirit Index, with 70% of people saying they feel close to their neighbours – far exceeding the national average of 57%.

The report, released ahead of Community Business Weekend (16-19 May), highlights cities where neighbourhood working is strongest and Power to Change, the organisation behind the study, said it reveals that despite a polarised political landscape, at a local level “the majority trust the people in our community.”

Speaking about the Community Spirit Index and the Community Business Weekend, Power to Change Chief Executive, Vidhya Alakeson says: “At this time of huge uncertainty it’s fantastic to hear that community spirit is still alive and well. People are more determined than ever to pull together for the common good. We know from our work on the ground how important that connection is for a successful community business, and how much those businesses improve the lives of communities.

“Community Business Weekend is a great opportunity for people to reconnect with their local community and to learn more about the amazing work of the 8,000 community businesses across the country that are working to transform their local area.”

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