EVENT: Building Resilient Communities: The Case for Social Cohesion
Date & Time
Dec 2, 2024 02:00 PM
Description
Join us for the launch of this timely report, commissioned by the Greater London Authority and produced by Protection Approaches, exploring the critical role of social cohesion in enhancing community resilience.
Based on in-depth research including consultation with over one hundred community and faith organisations in London, the report draws from the capital’s diverse experiences to offer insights with broad implications for resilience-building across the UK.
This event will bring together policymakers, community leaders, and organisations dedicated to fostering inclusive and resilient communities across London and the UK to discuss the report’s key findings and recommendations. Speakers will include:
- Chair: Andy Fearn – Co-Executive Director, Protection Approaches
- Derek Oakley: Report authority and Senior Outreach Officer, Protection Approaches
- Kristen Guida: Urban Resilience Manager, Greater London Authority
- Benaifer Bhandari: Chief Executive, Hopscotch Women’s Centre
- Misbah Malik: Senior Policy Officer, Hope Not Hate
Attendees will explore how inclusive spaces, strong networks, and trust-building led by community and faith groups are essential for fostering social cohesion and resilience, enabling communities to respond effectively during crises. However, achieving genuine cohesion and resilience also requires holistic approaches that address the root causes of social division—such as prejudice, economic insecurity, and lack of access to essential services.
As we face an increasingly complex future, this report stands as a compelling call to action, urging national and local leaders to champion social cohesion as a foundational pillar of resilience—essential for building stronger, more unified communities ready to confront tomorrow’s challenges.