Real change takes time, so we look at what’s happening now and the difference it makes over the longer term. Our approach, numbers and narratives, combine data with real stories to understand change in both education and community life. We work alongside schools and local people, learning together through the insights and experiences they choose to share. We’re already seeing emerging evidence of better educational outcomes and uplifting stories of community-led actions creating ripple effects that strengthen relationships and transform how schools and communities work together.
Every year, we learn more about what works and how local people lead change. These insights help us share ideas across our network, so others can adapt and build on what’s working in their own communities.
What we’re learning:
The energy behind this work keeps growing. Today, we’re supporting 26 hubs at different stages of development, working alongside 50 schools as they deepen community connections and act as good neighbours.
Hubs welcome everyone. Through intentional invitations and meeting people where they are, connections with residents not linked to schools grew by 76% between 2024-25 and 2025-26.
Over the past threeyears, we’ve invested more than £28,000 in small grants to turn youth and community-led ideas into reality. These initiatives bring people together to take action on what matters where they live.
By building strong connections with local organisations, community hubs have formed more than 100 partnerships. At least 34% of activities delivered across hubs involved a local partner organisation or association.
Here is a snapshot of the impact of our work in 2025-26:
There has also been £29,800 invested in community-led ideas through microgrants since 2023.
Independent evaluation shows hubs create safe spaces, build trust, and strengthen partnerships
Your support helps scale a model that is cost-effective, community-led, and built to last - creating great places for children, families, and neighbours.
The connections facilitated by hubs is growing year on year: in 2024-25 we recorded 4,700 hours of activity, and over 56,000 attendances - 136% increase from 2023-24:
In 2024, we commissioned an independent evaluation to deepen our asset-based community development (ABCD) approach.
The review identified four areas where our hubs continue to demonstrate strong practice:
“There is a clear emphasis on developing accessible, hospitable spaces that encourage community engagement in every setting.”
“Effective hubs focus on building strong, trusting relationships and fostering a participatory culture. Hub leaders are seen as connectors and facilitators rather than service providers.”
“Hubs benefit from meaningful partnerships with local organisations, which extend opportunities for community members and support community-led initiatives.”
“The Hub leads are well-acquainted with their local community, either through experience or active engagement as a result, they are more successful in fostering trust and participation.”