If I led Levelling Up – local changemakers speak
From a blog by We're Right Here
"We know that at hyper-local level, people understand what causes of concern are. They are careful with public funds, are prepared to work together to get best impact. Levelling Up needs to build on this."
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Why beauty matters
From a TED talk
“At every level of the human experience, we are looking for the beautiful, something that gives priority to our souls, not just our physical needs.”
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Neighbourhood economics
Geoff Knott
Why do we need to wait for government or authorities to steer money to local projects? Here's some ideas about getting the local community involved in action and funding.
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Mission Shaped Buildings
Kelvin Sampson
There is a profound shift taking place in the UK as churches begin to engage with the real needs of the community around them. This is manifesting itself in the design of church buildings to properly resource the work and reimagine church.
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Life changing buildings
Kelvin Sampson
Life changing buildings are those which are instruments, vehicles, tools for community transformation. Well-conceived buildings begin with a comprehensive understanding of the function they serve. Architects may design incredible spaces, eye-catching
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In-Person - National Estate Churches Network Conference - London
@St James the Less Church Pimlico (off Thorndike Street) London
The Building Is The Burden (Lightening The Load)
Many church leaders in low income areas know that their building is more than bricks and mortar - it is a community space for people to come to, to find peace, contact, practical support and God. Our buildings are a key asset. However, we also know that many were built quickly and cheaply many decades ago, and now show serious signs of aging, wear and tear. Yet many congregations do not have the resources for the increasing levels of maintenance, and the ongoing upkeep issues increasingly weigh leaders down drawing them away from their primary missional calling.
The key asset has now become a burden.
This conference aims to give church leaders practical advice and support to tackle such problems. Using expertise from the Church of England's central Housing Project, and the Church Urban Fund, the day will be a mix of teaching, sharing and seminars, where nuts and bolts questions can be asked of those with the answers.
Our prayer is that this conference will go some way to freeing church leaders of the burden to do what they have been primarily called to do - share the Gospel and God's love in their local community.
15/10/2026
09:30