Community Cohesion
Community Cohesion- What is it?
A cohesive community is a community that is in a state of wellbeing, harmony and stability. Local authorities have an important role in facilitating community cohesion, by listening to communities, engaging residents and assisting interaction between communities.
Community cohesion describes the ability of communities to function and grow in harmony together rather
than in conflict. It has strong links to concepts of equality and diversity given that community cohesion can
only grow when society as a whole recognises that individuals have the right to equality (of treatment,
access to services etc) and respects and appreciates the diverse nature of our communities. The Local
Government Association defined a cohesive community as one where:
- there is a common vision and a sense of belonging for all communities;
- the diversity of people's backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued;
- those from different backgrounds have similar life opportunities; and
- strong and positive relationships are being developed between people from different backgrounds and
circumstances in the workplace, in schools and in neighbourhoods.
Community cohesion lies at the centre of what makes a strong, vibrant and safe community. It is an
important issue for all of us, whether we live in the heart of a big city or in a leafy village. Attempts to create
sustainable communities by regenerating areas and renewing housing markets need to consider the impact
on community cohesion in these areas. Community cohesion is about inclusion, making the effort to find out
about others, treating each other with respect and building good relations between different parts of the
community. It is not just about race, but is equally about, for example, the relationships between young and
old and between residents of different estates or residents within a single estate.
As part of its commitment to community cohesion Citysafe are also tackling race and hate crime.
To find out more about what Liverpool City Council are doing surrounding race relations and support for ethnic groups please visit the ethnic communities pages, or contact Jill Summers, Community Cohesion Officer jillian.summers@liverpool.gov.uk.