We’re pleased to announce that Belong, alongside British Future, is supporting a new, Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion – backed by both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition – and convened by the Together Coalition.

The commission will be chaired by Sir Sajid Javid and Prof. John Denham, two former communities secretaries – with a full list of commissioners set to be released later this spring.

It will focus on how to strengthen community connection, cohesion and resilience across the country – drawing on insights from focus groups, roundtables, polling, and a major public engagement exercise aiming to reach millions of people.

Kelly Fowler, CEO of Belong said:

“A national conversation that will allow people to voice their concerns, but importantly – how we address them – is long overdue. We are delighted to be supporting the Commission as it develops its early evidence base and look forward to sharing more over the coming weeks as this exciting project progresses.”

The first phase of the commission has just launched in the form of a wide-ranging call for evidence, open to everyone – academics, local communities, faith groups, youth organisations, grassroots campaigns, and more.

We’d like to invite you to share your insights as part of this initial process.
You’ll find all the details here: livingwelltogether.org.uk
Alongside that the commission will be launching a large-scale public conversation this summer, to gather new ideas on connecting people, reviving local life, and restoring trust in our shared institutions.

How you can help:

• Share your expertise by responding to the call for evidence
• Help to build a national conversation: The commission wants to ensure this national conversation reaches as many people as possible, and needs your help to do this effectively. If you think you might be able to host local events, embed the conversation into your work, or you have ideas about other organisations who might be able to help, get in touch by emailing contact@livingwelltogether.org.uk

For more information visit livingwelltogether.org.uk