The chancellor’s new £4bn Levelling Up fund provides reason for public service leaders to think long term.
If the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us anything it’s that a well-developed community support system with integrated public services and community hubs are critical for both the well-being and the prosperity of an area.
The government is due to publish more details of the fund in the new year and promises to promote holistic, place-based approaches and prioritise projects that make a real change to people’s lives. If this is done well, it could help cement some of the positives that emerged during the pandemic that have reinvigorated and reconnected local communities.
When it comes to bidding for this money, local areas will need a clear vision of the places they are trying to create. In practice this means identifying critical social infrastructure that helps close the opportunity gap, alongside physical improvements to buildings, roads and railways.
To find out more about the new funding and what will be critical for you in the bidding process, Andrew Laird shares his thoughts in this video:
If you’d like to discuss your ideas with Andrew and the team at Mutual Ventures, get in touch on andrew@mutualventures.co.uk.
