You, Me and Us Committee: Evidencing Strengths-Based Community-Led Social Action

Uncategorized Wednesday 30 September 2026

This report presents an analysis of the You, Me and Us Committee (YMU)’s ways of working, examining whether and how they support and grow community capacity, agency and voice. This research acts as a small-scale pilot study which offers insights into the work of YMU and the value it brings to the members and the residents in Shirecliffe, Sheffield. It is one of six Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector (VCFS) demonstrator project reports which will form a comparative report, widening the evidence base and learning to include findings about a diverse set of VCFS organisations.

Prior to this study, the research team connected with Professor Sally Pearse at Sheffield Hallam University, who introduced them to YMU as an example of community-led social action, working to support their community and address gaps in service and community sector provision.

The research was undertaken between August and November 2025, focusing on qualitative methods. Working co-productively with YMU, the research team sought to understand the outcomes and impacts of their way of working identifiable at individual and community levels.

The findings are based on the perspectives of group members and a community stakeholder who has been key to supporting their development.

Read the full report here: You, Me and Us Committee: Evidencing Strengths-Based Community-Led Social Action

Check out the other work and activities being delivered under our cross-cutting theme of Communities in their Places.