GM Live Well event: Growing community power and decision making to tackle inequalities

Nearly 500 people from across Greater Manchester came together to talk about growing community power and decision making at the third event in the Live Well movement building series. The event harnessed the strength and creativity of the GM Live Well movement as public services move towards a powerful ambition to further transform neighbourhood working towards prevention. Live Well is Greater Manchester's commitment to everyday support in every neighbourhood, changing how we work with communities and in public services to grow opportunities for everyone to Live Well.

With 12 breakout sessions, panel debates, lightening talks, a choir, youth band, walking tours, legislative theatre, a power map and community reporting, even the living room themed furniture was community-powered (thanks to Mustard Tree).

Elephants Trail team of community reporters defined community power as ‘finding ways to make things happen’. They saw people coming together and shifting things for the better and created a film called ‘Able’ watch here. Greater Manchester leaders highlighted their collective call for the devolution of power out of Westminster, across our systems and into the hands of neighbourhoods and communities.

Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions said: “You’re pioneering in Greater Manchester. We want to learn and unleash the huge potential.”

A 4.5 minute summary of the event is available here