Develops a learning programme on sustainable communities for LSPs. Outlines the objectives and outcomes of the learning programme. Describes the delivery options and 17 delivery activities and mechanisms selected for the learning programme, including Academy for Sustainable Communities self-assessment tools, models, checklists, toolkits, case studies etc. Discusses targeting the programme and the implementation sequence, evaluation mechanisms, and quality management of the learning programme. Looks at how the programme could become self-sustaining. Includes information on the partners involved, measures that could be used to monitor take up and satisfaction with components of the learning programme, and costs.

CAG Consultants and Warwick Business School (Local Government Centre) were commissioned to develop a Learning Programme (learning programme) on sustainable communities for LSPs. The learning programme is to build LSPs’ capacity to understand and respond to the whole of the sustainable communities agenda, as defined in the UK Sustainable Development Strategy, "Securing the future".

The research involved initial mapping of learning support available in LSPs; a survey of LSP support staff about current learning practice; and a telephone survey of regional bodies that provide support to LSPs.

Finds that LSPs are most likely to improve their sustainable communities learning if it is promoted within government guidance to LSPs. Concludes that there is limited learning by LSPs with little capacity for additional learning and suggests that the learning programme should be integrated into current national and regional LSP support rather than delivered as a separate programme. The learning programme should also focus on the gaps in current sustainable communities learning rather than duplicating existing provision. Considers that optimal delivery mechanisms for the learning programme should involve national guidance, advice and resources to LSPs, and regional bodies providing support to LSPs. Describes activities to be included in the learning programme.

CAG Consultants
Joan Bennett, tel. +44 (0)1663 766 906

01/02/2006

CAG Consultants and Warwick Business School, Local Government Centre

research

Urban Policy