This programme will support 100 people to become Everyday Democracy Champions, in turn catalysing the action of others in communities furthest from power, and creating tangible change across all four UK nations.

Half (47%) of people in the UK believe they have no influence over decision making. Most believe the current political system does not understand them, or deliver what they need. And, people’s lack of power and trust is not uniform — those furthest from power understandably have the least trust in the current system.

And yet, we see on a daily basis people’s desire and ability to work with others to make things better. During our processes, there is a moment for many of those involved, when they realise they have the right, ability and opportunity to make a difference. Similarly, there is always a moment when two people from very different backgrounds find that they are able to work together. We want to take this moment and build on it.

The good news is, we increasingly have the tools to help make this possible. From a greater understanding and use of processes like participatory budgeting and citizens assemblies, to a national rise in community organising approaches, we are better equipped to support people to make a difference on the issues that matter to them.

We have a unique opportunity to build the power of people from all walks of life to come together to deliver common good in communities across the country. This is what our democracy needs; people having the power, confidence, connections, skills, and opportunities required to affect the things that matter most to them. We call this everyday democracy.

This programme will support 100 people to become Everyday Democracy Champions, in turn catalysing the action of others in communities furthest from power, and creating tangible change across all four UK nations. The programme is generously supported by the National Lottery Community Fund’s UK Fund.