ABCD Year Six Review now launched!
A review of ABCD in Leeds pathfinder sites (2019 - 2025)
A six - year journey from seeds to trees
The Leeds Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) Pathfinder Review (2019-2025} was conducted by Leeds City Council in partnership with six pathfinder sites to assess if there were positive impacts of funding the ABCD model.
The review affirmed that small, trust-based funding at a neighbourhood level has created an immeasurable positive impact and built a stronger community infrastructure. The ABCD model delivers meaningful change and will shape the development of the city’s commitment to championing Community Power.
What's Inside the Review:
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Why ABCD is central to Leeds's commitment to Community Power.
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How Community Builders connected people, ideas, and organisations to create local change.
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Small Sparks empowered residents to create social led action.
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£36.90 social value generated for every £1 invested in ABCD.
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Ripple effects created new groups, enterprises, and lasting partnerships citywide.
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This review builds on past learning and reassesses the Social Return on Investment (SROI) - read more here.
Case Study Highlight
Irene’s Story – Touchstone, Burmantofts
What began as a small soup kitchen became a lifeline for over 70 people each week — a place of connection, dignity, and hope. “We’re so proud that we are changing lives here.”
— Irene, St Barnabus Soup Kitchen
Read more about Irene's story in the review
Welcome to the Asset Based Community Development website
Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) is a bottom-up approach to sustainable community-driven development.
We recognise, identify, and harness the strengths and gifts of individuals and communities who then work together to create their own social action.
On this page, you can find details about this project, the approaches we take, our learning, and tools and resources you may need.
Please contact us for any further information to speak to our team.