What are the main benefits of using asset-based community development theory?

Local knowledge, experience and expertise is a key form of evidence that can help shape an effective intervention or programme. I've seen it used best when local communities are able to shape the service from the ground up, diagnosing problems and issues, and coming up with solutions which experts can help them bring to life. We've had experience of this when working with digitally excluded communities in Greenwich, London. The long-term benefits are much more buy-in and interest, as well as a shared sense of commitment. It also appears to support knowledge exchange, when the right external experts are encouraged to participate too.

ABCD shift the mindset and indviduals starts realizing abundance of resources to make changes in their lifes without necessarily relying on external support. This is huge.

Communities, online or otherwise, should all be self-sustaining. And most are. Studying local communities and facilitating the recognition of their abilities (of course only if lacking) can help to encourage them to grow independently. Success is also through their resources or cultivating ones tailored for them which can help increase a sense of ownership within the community. A favourite example for me is the Anganwadi and ASHA workers who dispense basic healthcare in rural India, where healthcare access is scarce. However, since these women are a part of those communities, educating them on the basics has proven extremely beneficial.

An ABCD approach lasts as it is not dependent on external resources but the skills and passions of local people who quite simply will not let things fail. People will work to make their initiatives a success because they care and are determined. Compare this with a national organisation who may leave an area if they lose the income to do the work.

The main benefits include fostering community empowerment, leveraging local assets, encouraging sustainable development, and promoting inclusive participation.

This is true, at least in theory, but it requires care and thought to make it a reality. In the UK, the field of ABCD practitioners and leaders is not always as diverse as it needs to be so representation can be a challenge, which creates risks such as unconscious bias. People who have barriers to participating in community development work such as mobility or communication barriers, people with learning disabilities and people with stigmatised conditions can all be excluded. Mayday Trust aims to form relationships with people who are the most marginalised and excluded, and who often have multiple support needs. This work starts with the individual, but then aims to enable individuals to build and form their own groups and to effect change.

An ABCD approach may encourage inclusion, but this doesn't always roll out as expected. To promote D&I it becomes crucial to make those of the community a primary part of the processes required for the progress of the community. It is not only for feedback but for ideation, development and even implementation. This is often not one representative, but different people from even the micro elements of the community, that are frequently overlooked. Whenever something new is attempted, it would be great to consider feedback on the impact from everyone. When this loop is iterated a few times, D&I can be achieved.

We unlock the creative potential of communities by focusing on strengths rather than deficits. When community members are encouraged to share their unique ideas and opportunities, it fosters a culture of innovation where experimentation is welcomed. This collaborative environment not only brings together diverse perspectives but also sparks synergies that lead to novel solutions. Providing opportunities for community members to contribute their unique ideas, take ownership of the community experience, and shape community development generates new ways to address challenges, turning creativity into a driving force for continuous improvement and collective empowerment.

It does indeed! The goal is to uplift and enlighten abilities, where one might have questioned them. It always shows among those who have benefitted from positive community change, especially when using one's own skills, and resources familiar to an individual. Essentially, we are all unique. And there are often 100 ways to do one thing. Communities, especially those adopting the ABCD approach, ensure this.