Local Area Coordinators are employed by councils, however embarking on the journey of establishing Local Area Coordination (LAC) involves a collaborative effort between the lead council, their partners (e.g. NHS orgs), and Community Catalysts CIC who are the national development organisation for LAC. Guidance and support are provided by a dedicated expert from Community Catalysts over approximately 30 days, phased strategically over around 12 months. The Local Area Coordination Network (LACN) is made up of areas that have worked with Community Catalysts to follow the LAC development programme (tailored to their circumstances).

Ongoing LACN membership ensures the longevity of LAC through direct support, collaboration with peers (at practitioner, manager, and elected member levels), and the sharing of knowledge, training, practice standards, and peer support. It goes beyond the professional, encompassing elements like regional gatherings which help support Local Area Coordinator connectivity and retention. Being part of the Network includes an annual fee to cover core costs of facilitation and development.

If you’re considering LAC implementation, please get in touch for a conversation with us so we can support you to make the case and explore potential opportunities for cost support. Email Nick Sinclair (Director of the Network) on nick.sinclair@communitycatalysts.co.uk.

Why not take a look at the videos below of Surrey County Council employees reflecting on their experience of development –