Community development traditionally looks for deficits in a community – what’s wrong – and tries to address these perceived needs. We’re doing it differently.
Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) comes from the opposite direction. What does the community already have than can be built on? What do residents want to happen? What can communities be empowered to do themselves?
Assets might be buildings, natural environments, organisations, but it’s most importantly the people in the community – the people who live there, who work there, who go to school there. It starts from a point of needing to understand what assets already exist, taking time to understand what strengths individuals, the communities, and local organisations already have and might be built upon.
Our Community Builders spent time getting to know local people, and encourage and support residents to give something to their community and share their knowledge and skills.
Donna Parry is our Community Builder.
Donna and the BARN team have worked particularly in Abbeydale and Woodrow, but also work to support other communities across Redditch.
Stories from our Redditch communities
The story of St. Georges is a testament to the magic of dedication and imagination. Their carnival float wasn’t just a vehicle of expression; it was a journey of collaboration, creation and community spirit an innovation that brought the community together and gave them memories to cherish for a lifetime.
“We’ve got loads of people coming, I’ve met some new friends, my son interacts now with other children and its given me something to get up and go for…”
“I’ve loved getting to know the neighbours, being outside together. It’s just brought everyone together, and importantly it’s just been good fun.”
“The spirit of the community is so infectious, there’s such a warmth to the people. They’ll go above and beyond, from the people themselves to the local businesses…”
“Woodrow is an amazing community place. We have the support of the Councillor, we have the support of the community support worker… Absolutely amazing people. When it’s needed Woodrow comes together. “
Bromsgrove and Redditch Network 