About us

Development and Regeneration is one of the three core strands of Shaftesbury’s work. It focuses on encouraging Christians to respond to the needs of communities throughout the country. In some places Shaftesbury community workers are working in partnership with local church congregations; in others staff work with a number of projects in an advisory capacity. Over the past year we have been involved in a diverse programme of activities, including help with: - Conducting community research and surveys - Evaluating existing projects - Advising on management structures - Writing business plans - Developing fundraising strategies

In some areas Shaftesbury is exploring locality working. This looks at how local church congregations, Christians and networks can build links and work together strategically to make an impact in communities. This includes mapping research to find out how churches and projects are already involved in their communities.

Shaftesbury workers based in Brighton, Portsmouth and Southampton have undertaken extensive citywide research into Christian social action. This has been done in partnership with other organisations, including the Church Urban Fund, Engage, SCRATCH and the South East England Development Agency.

The reports give a broad picture of what is already going on in each of the cities. It also helps to identify ways in which the Church throughout each city can better work together, and with others, to see lasting change in communities.

Reports from Brighton and Portsmouth are available to download in the resources section.

Other cities where similar research has been done include Hull and Preston. Get more information about Preston or email search@care4free.net for more information about Hull.