Big Local Relationship with Public Agencies: Research Report

Introduction

This report explores how Big Local partnerships build and manage relationships with the 4 most common types of public agencies.

They are:

• local authorities

• housing associations

• schools

• health organisations

It examines what these relationships look like, why they matter and how they influence local decision‑making.

The report is for communities, public bodies and funders interested in effective partnership working.

Findings

The report found that Big Local partnerships interact with a wide range of public agencies for purposes such as sharing information, coordinating services and influencing local priorities.

Effective relationships were built on:

• trust

• continuity

• clear communication

• mutual respect

Public agencies valued Big Local groups for their local knowledge and community connections, while partnerships relied on agencies for expertise, resources and permission to act.

Challenges included staff turnover in agencies, differing expectations, and power imbalances. Capacity pressures in public agencies also limited collaboration and responsiveness.

Where relationships worked well, they helped communities deliver projects more effectively. They also strengthened local voice, improved local outcomes and contributed to more collaborative local decision-making.