Asset Based Community Development: Evaluation of Leeds ABCD

This report presents findings from the Leeds Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) programme evaluation. ABCD is a neighbourhood-based community building approach that uses community organising methods to identify, mobilise and strengthen the capacities or asset of individuals, families and communities (Kretzmann and McKnight, 1993). At the time of the evaluation. 12 ABCD pathfinder sites operated in Leeds neighbourhoods, the majority established in 2019. The model consists of: • Community Builders - paid workers hosted by Neighbourhood Organisations • Community Connectors - individuals living locally who may organise and support local activities • ‘Small Sparks’ grants - funds for groups and individuals to support local activity. Using mainly qualitative and participatory methods, this collaborative evaluation involved working with Leeds City Council and the Community Builders to gather evidence of what works and how. The findings show that the pioneering Leeds ABCD pathfinder model is still relatively new in its development and shifting to citizen-led activity takes time. Nonetheless the evaluation presents strong evidence on how ABCD works and the mechanisms of change thus demonstrating how a city-wide approach can be implemented. There is strong evidence for better social connections and the pathway to community change. Promising evidence for increased friendships, the social value of the pathfinder model, change in communities and other additional outcomes also exists. A series of recommendations and issues for consideration are presented to inform programme development.