National Federation of Parks & Green Spaces
The National Federation of Parks and Green Spaces (NFPGS) is the umbrella organisation that aims to amplify the voices of Friends Groups across the UK. The Federation works with the dynamic and inspirational grassroots movement of over 6,000 local Friends of Parks groups, supporting volunteers who act on behalf of the communities who use and care about our vital public green spaces of all…
Project overview for completed projects

Course title:  The Bartlett Development Planning Unit

Dissertation title:  The role of good relations between voluntary community-based groups and local authorities in sustaining Greenspace: Practices of UK Friends Groups

Community Partner: National Federation of Parks and Greenspaces

Academic supervisor:  Liza Griffin

Abstract: My priority research objective is to complete the investigation of the relationship between the two (Friends Group-Local Authority). Identifying what constitutes a good relationship between a Friends group and a local authority, where are these good relationships occurring and what are the key success factors behind these good relationships? I have completed the literature review, methodology and collection of first-hand information: interviews, and am in the process of coding the analysis and writing the finding section.

Idea for research
Idea for research
Friends of Parks perform a range of different roles including protecting their local spaces from inappropriate development, fundraising, undertaking practical volunteering, organising activities and events, and more. All of this is done on a voluntary basis. We want to identify what constitutes a good and productive relationship between a 'Friends Group' and a local authority, where are these good relationships occurring, and what are the key success factors behind these good relationships. We feel that any investigation based upon these factors would be very helpful to us in promoting good practice and providing insight (and tools?) for grassroots groups - and indeed local authorities and parks management - to be more effective in their partnership working.

Impact of idea
This research could help inform better relationships between local authorities and Friends groups. It could lead to better parks with better facilities, more activities and events, and enhanced community benefit. It could also improve funding, with greater community support from local authorities, and will also have a positive impact on the dynamism and effectiveness of Friends Groups.
Comments
This research will take place in England but potentially anywhere across the UK. There is no set timeline and can negotiate one. Field work will be about 30 hours. You will have a legacy with working with us. Our previous student co-collaborator has their dissertation up on our website if you want to have a look.

What new data or information would you like to be collected in this project?

Application process
Application criteria
An interest in people, working relationships, community work and grass roots organisations.
DBS needed
No
Is this project fully accessible to students with the disabilities?
Yes

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