Keep it Local Principles in Practice

This Locality report brings together learning from the Keep it Local Network about building long-term partnerships between councils and communities. It explores how councils can embed and sustain the approach, followed by practical tips and case studies organised around six Keep it Local principles.

It is for practitioners working with, and within, councils. Community organisations can use the lessons and examples to support conversations with their council and other local service partners.

• Understand how councils can build the foundations for long-term change and turn commitment into practical action.
• Explore whole-system and neighbourhood approaches that join up local services around people.
• Consider how local spending can support the local economy.
• Learn how early intervention can address problems before they escalate.
• Explore ways councils can proactively support community organisations and strengthen local partnerships.
• Understand simpler, collaborative commissioning that helps make services “local by default”.