We’re delighted to share the publication of Understanding Pride of Place, a new GAP briefing paper exploring how people’s emotional and cultural connection to where they live can support community-led social and environmental change.
At a time when challenges like climate action and social cohesion require local solutions, the research asks a simple but important question: how can pride of place help turn personal attachment into collective action?
Drawing on Irish research and case studies, including Ballymun Is Brilliant, the paper highlights several findings that are relevant for practitioners everywhere.
One key insight is that pride of place builds confidence and participation. When people feel proud of their area, they are more likely to volunteer, collaborate and take responsibility for shared spaces. Working with existing community identity and strengths helps transform motivation into action.
The research also shows that climate action is more effective when it is rooted in care for place. Projects such as community gardens, biodiversity initiatives and creative climate programmes demonstrate how emotional connection to local environments can encourage long-term environmental stewardship.
Importantly, the paper highlights that pride of place must be inclusive. While it can strengthen belonging, it can also become contested if certain voices are excluded. Participatory, co-created approaches are essential to ensure that local pride reflects the diversity of the community.
Overall, the findings reinforce our view that place matters. When pride of place is nurtured, it can support climate action, strengthen social cohesion and build collective agency.
We hope this research supports practitioners working to enable community-led change.
Read the full paper here.
