The Skills Framework for Regeneration has been has been developed to support everyone currently working within regeneration by detailing identified common skills that are considered crucial in helping to be effective in a variety of roles and circumstances.

The Skills Framework for Community Regeneration came out of research commissioned by the Scottish Centre for Regeneration to study the skills required by those currently working in regeneration. It was also asked to assess current skill gaps and map existing learning provision. It builds on the ‘Coherent Diversity’(2004) and ‘Working Together Learning Together’ (2004) reports.

The Scottish Centre for Regeneration is part of Communities Scotland and is informed by ‘Better Communities in Scotland: Closing the Gap’. This aims to transfer knowledge of what works and doesn’t work and to improve skills and competencies at a local level.

The study and development of the framework was carried out by the Department of Urban Studies, University of Glasgow. Research methods included updating literature reviews and a survey of training providers.

A solid evidence base for a skills framework was provided by a particularly extensive survey. Then a postal survey was followed up with telephone interviews. Focus group meetings were held in five local authority areas.

Contact lists obtained for each area contained a wide range of people involved in regeneration and there were 343responses (27%). National organisations were consulted and approaches to self-assessment of learning needs were tested.

Community regeneration is effected by professionals and non-professionals. Most participants perform multiple roles in multiple partnerships. Most sectors agree on the skills needed. Most people recognise the need for self-improvement. Skills can be categorised as ‘process’, ‘practical’ and strategic’ skills.

Most people prefer outside support and exchanges of experience to relying on self-acquired skills. Most people welcome more access to different learning methods. The skills framework as a guide and ‘tool kit’ of support was recieved positively by consultees. 

The Scottish Centre for Regeneration
Jim.carruth@communitiesscotland.gsi.gov.uk

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/01/2005

Commissioned by Scottish Centre for Regeneration, Carried out by Department of Urban Studies, University of Glasgow

research

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Citizens' participation, Support for local groups, Capacity building