Own the Future

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Original data available here

Own the future FAQ document available here

Own the future is the result of the largest survey yet undertaken of the civic society movement. It presents the conclusions of an extensive debate about the future of the civic society movement and draws together a set of proposals and issues to move things forward. The results show a real demand from civic societies to work together as a movement. They show that civic societies want to be more influential, more rooted in their communities and more effective in the way they work. They are proud of the places they champion and they want others to share in their passion and respect what’s important. The report also puts the spotlight on some of the reasons why civic societies are not yet achieving their potential and presents some important choices for the future.

The conclusions need further discussion. We need to know whether there is agreement around the broad direction of travel and hear views on the proposals before putting a proposition to the movement.

Five issues stand out which would benefit from more input and you are particularly asked for feedback on:

1. Whether the principles of the movement (collective, networked, independent, federal) and a new national body (campaigning, responsive, light footed, grassroots) are sound.

2. The balance of priorities for the work of the new national body between representing the movement, supporting societies and helping societies network together.

3. How civic societies can best network and share experience – including the proposals to build this around clusters of civic societies and thematic issues rather than Government regions.

4. Defining the common thread uniting the civic society movement – founded on the importance of place, pride, identity and community.

5. The balance between securing independence for the movement and funding it through contributions from individual civic societies on a per capita membership basis.

We are keen to bring final proposals forward before the end of the year in order that any new arrangements can be established around Easter 2010. It would be helpful, therefore, to have your feedback by Friday 20 November to admin@civicsocietyinitiative.org.uk. We are aware of a number of some societies planning special meetings to discuss this report.

To request a hard copy publication please fill in this form.

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The Civic Society Initiative is hosted by the North of England Civic Trust, a company registered in England, no. 1654806, and a registered charity, no. 513055

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