As the founder of Decentered Media, I am pleased to endorse the Belong Manifesto for Social Cohesion. This initiative is pivotal in guiding the next UK Government towards policies that enhance social unity and resilience. Community media, with its grassroots approach, is vital in this endeavour. It amplifies diverse voices, facilitates local dialogue, and fosters civic engagement. By nurturing these connections, community media contributes significantly to the social fabric, helping to build a more inclusive and resilient society.
Five key points form the Belong Manifesto for Social Cohesion:
1. Establishing a UK Social Cohesion Commission: Proposing the creation of a dedicated commission for social cohesion.
2. Protecting our freedom to disagree well: Emphasizing the importance of respectful disagreement.
3. Learning from crisis to tackle our shared challenges every day: Utilising lessons from crises to address common challenges.
4. Time, space, and shared language to connect: Encouraging time, space, and communication for connection.
5. A stronger British identity for all of us: Fostering a unified British identity.
Community media should be recognised as a key player in the development and implementation of social policies aimed at improving cohesion. It serves as a bridge between communities and policymakers, ensuring that local perspectives are considered in broader societal strategies. Through storytelling, public discussions, and community-driven content, community media helps to break down barriers, promote mutual understanding, and create a shared sense of purpose.
At Decentered Media, we believe that empowering local voices and fostering meaningful connections are essential steps towards a cohesive society. We support the Belong Manifesto’s vision and are committed to playing our part in achieving its goals. Together, we can build stronger, more resilient communities across the UK.
The main points of action that parties in the General Election need to consider, include:
1. Community Building: Strengthening local communities through inclusive policies and practices.
2. Education and Youth Engagement: Promoting social cohesion in schools and youth programs.
3. Economic Inclusion: Ensuring economic opportunities are accessible to all.
4. National Policy Alignment: Aligning national policies to support social cohesion efforts.
5. Research and Evidence: Investing in research to inform and guide social cohesion strategies.
For more details, you can access the manifesto here.
As a committed advocate for social cohesion, I firmly believe in the necessity of investing in media that promotes and supports an inclusive sense of belonging in Britain. This media should emphasise our character, shared sense of purpose, and mutual support, while actively working to diminish division, dogmatism, and segregation. By fostering understanding and unity, we can build a stronger, more cohesive society where everyone feels valued and connected.
Rob Watson,
Founder, Decentered Media.