“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
– Margaret Mead
Community action plays a vital role in driving social change, bringing together individuals to address shared issues and improve their collective wellbeing. At its core, community action is about empowering local people to identify problems, develop solutions and take action. It is rooted in the belief that communities, when united, possess the strength to challenge injustices and create meaningful transformations.
Grassroots Action – Making Change Happen
One of the most powerful ways to drive change is through grassroots organising, where local groups come together to advocate for change on issues that matter most to them. Whether addressing inequality, environmental degradation, or lack of access to resources. It’s about amplifying voices, building momentum and influencing decision-makers to bring about real improvements.
Take the Phoenix Detached Youth Project in North Tyneside. A group of young people spent four years campaigning for a local skatepark. They spoke to businesses, gathered support and attended meetings with decision-makers. Thanks to their hard work, the skatepark is now a fantastic space for the community—proof that persistence pays off!
Communities Taking the Lead
The MumSpace North Tyneside group, part of Parent Action at Tyne and Wear Citizens, wanted to improve their local park. They started by listening to local people, finding out what changes were needed and then taking action. Citizens UK defines community organising as “…bringing people together to win change. This means building community-led solutions to big and small problems that work for everyone.”
MumSpace organised a community litter pick to show the local council how passionate residents were about decent local facilities. Residents spoke to local councillors and made the case for more litter bins, more signage for dog fouling, more benches, picnic tables and more equipment for older children. Their efforts got results, showing how community-led action can create real improvements.
From Mutual Aid to Lasting Change
Food and Solidarity started as a mutual aid group during the pandemic, helping people in need. Since then, they’ve grown into an active North East-based membership organisation working on food access, housing issues and poverty.
They recently campaigned against child poverty, raising the issue with MPs and even gaining national media coverage. Their impact was so big that they were featured as Big Issue Changemakers in 2025!
These stories show that when people work together, amazing things happen. Community action creates a sense of ownership and shared responsibility, making change more meaningful and long-lasting.
Social change starts with people like you. Whether you want to tackle an issue in your neighbourhood or support a cause you care about, every action counts.
Your actions today can create a ripple effect that leads to a more just, inclusive and sustainable future for all.
“Whatever community organisation, whether it’s a women’s organisation, or fighting for racial justice … you will get satisfaction out of doing something to give back to the community that you never get in any other way.”
– Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Get Involved
If you’re feeling inspired, check out the North of Tyne Social Action Guide for ways to get involved.
Here are some other great resources to help you get started:
- REFLECT Action Toolkit: A practical guide to deciding how to take action in your community.
- Community Organising Tools and Resources: Guides and templates for grassroots campaigns.
- Community Organisers Learning Resources: Online training and practical tools for community action.
- EmpowHER Youth Social Action Guide: A guide to helping young people take action.
- Youth Social Action Guide: A step-by-step resource for young changemakers.
For more ideas, support, or to find volunteering opportunities in North Tyneside, contact VODA’s North Tyneside Volunteer Centre at 0191 643 2626 or email volunteering@voda.org.uk.
Big or small, every action makes a difference. What change will you be part of?
